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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Ian Bunting

Family of Lanarkshire Celtic fan found dead in Spanish hotel room thank fundraisers who helped bring his body home

The family of a Lanarkshire man who tragically passed away while on holiday in Spain have thanked the "amazing" people who donated to a fundraiser to help bring his body home.

As Lanarkshire Live reported last week, Barry Horn, from Airdrie, died on September 1 - just a day after he touched down in Majorca for a break with his friends.

The 33-year-old was found dead in his hotel room, leaving his loved ones devastated.

His cause of death is yet to be established, with his family anxiously awaiting the results of a post-mortem.

But Barry's family are finally set to welcome him home tomorrow (Tuesday) as a fundraiser established to cover the costs of bringing his body back to Scotland, and his funeral, has raised £6615 out of a target of £7000.

Barry's cousin, Donna Collins, 35, told Lanarkshire Live : "Barry will finally be back in Scotland tomorrow; we're not sure exactly what time, but we'll just be glad to get him home.

"We felt really hopeless, and that we couldn't do anything, as Barry was in Spain and the whole thing has been a nightmare.

"We only found out Barry had passed away through his friends and then we contacted the British Embassy to confirm it.

"The family cannot thank everyone who donated to the online fundraiser enough for their support; they are all amazing.

"People are struggling financially at the moment, so to make a contribution to bringing Barry home is so humbling.

"It just shows you how the community comes together during dark times.

"The money left over from getting Barry home will go towards his funeral costs so every pound donated will be of huge help to the family."

Former St Dominic's Primary and St Margaret's High pupil Barry had flown to Majorca last month with plans to watch the Old Firm game at the island's renowned Celtic bars.

Donna said: "We're still in shock. He went over for a week to meet friends and they were going to watch the Celtic v Rangers match on the Saturday.

"He was looking forward to being in the atmosphere over there and really looking forward to the holiday. We want to give him the best send-off that we can."

Donna added: "Barry was a larger-than-life character and always full of laughter. He could put a smile on anyone's face and he was just full of banter.

"He absolutely adored his wee nieces and nephews. He will always be remembered as somebody who loved his family and somebody who was loved by his family.

"He will never, ever be forgotten by any of us, he was a remarkable character that you will not forget."

Dozens of tributes have been left for popular Celtic fan Barry, who has been described as a 'beautiful and kind' son and brother.

Friend Gemma Graham said: "Thoughts and prayers are with Barry Horn's family and friends what a guy he was. He would light up a room with his big contagious smile and would make you laugh so much.

"Barry worked for us for a while and he certainly made work that little easier... still doesn't seem real. I pray all his family and friends find some strength to get through this sad time."

Another added: "My partner and his amazing family received the most devastating news any family could, their beautiful, funny, kind and loving brother, son, cousin, uncle and grandson unexpectedly passed away while he was away enjoying a lads holiday.

"Heaven is sure taking all the best but it's leaving so much pain and hurt behind. Anyone who knew Barry Horn will know just how much of an amazing person he was."

Pal Amy Crothers said: Absolutely heartbroken to hear of your unexpected passing Barry Horn. I'll always cherish the times you, me and Gary spent driving about in my car, having the best of times and you guys constantly making me laugh. You are going to be sorely missed by many."

To donate to the fundraiser for Barry's family, click here.

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