THE Irish League of Credit Unions has published some of the messages of sympathy left following the death of its former president John Hume, as well as a new portrait of the Nobel Laureate.
Mr Hume, who died in August, was a founding member of Derry Credit Union and often described his involvement as one of his greatest achievements.
In tribute to the "wonderful leader", the credit union movement commissioned a new portrait by Dublin artist Shane Gillen.
Both it and messages of sympathy have been released against a poignant rendition of Mr Hume’s favourite song, The Town I Love So Well, by composer Phil Coulter.
"Key dates of John’s life have been worked into this amazing portrait including the year 1960, when he founded Northern Ireland’s first credit union, Derry Credit Union Limited," a spokesman said.
“The legacy of John Hume will live on for generations and his impact on the world will never be forgotten.”
In his personal tribute to Mr Hume, Mr Coulter said: “I can’t tell you deeply saddened I was at news of John Hume’s passing.
"Apart from being a political giant who worked ceaselessly for peace, he was a fine human being, a dyed-in-the-wool Derry man and a good and loyal friend since our school days. They just don’t build men like John any more.”
The tribute also includes emotional messages left on the credit union’s book of condolences.
Paul from Co Derry wrote: “When society was falling apart, and the easier course was to turn away, or even join in, John Hume stood up and showed us the way back from the brink.”
Mary from Limerick described the former SDLP leader as “the voice of reason and peace”. while John from Tralee said he was “an exceptional human being”.
Jane from Culdaff in Co Donegal said: “He seemed so humble and ordinary while really extraordinary.”
The tribute and portrait can be seen on the credit union’s social media channels.
