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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Connor Lynch

Larne bonfire 'to be removed by council' following tragic death

A bonfire in Larne where a man tragically died is to be removed by the council.

John Steele has been named locally as the bonfire builder who died at the Antiville bonfire in Larne on Saturday, July 9.

His death has brought much sadness to the local community who have said that a dark cloud now hangs over the estate.

Read more: Tributes paid to bonfire builder following tragic fall in Larne

Tributes have been paid from across Northern Ireland to John as people send their condolences to his family at this tragic time.

It is now understood that Mid and East Antrim Council will be removing the bonfire at Antiville as a result of the death, with council officers meeting with the builders on Sunday morning.

Flowers left beside the bonfire. (Jonathan Porter/PressEye)

DUP councillor Gregg McKeen said: "I am very sorry to hear about the tragic accident at the Antiville bonfire site where a young man has lost his life and I my thoughts are with his family and the local community.

"I understand that council staff have met with the bonfire builders at the site today and it is their wishes that it will be removed and are making arrangements to do so."

John's death has "brought a dark cloud" over the Antiville community in Larne who have expressed their condolences to his family and said they are all deeply saddened by his loss.

Flowers left beside the bonfire. (Jonathan Porter/PressEye)

The Antiville Bonfire builders issued a statement on social media today saying: "This is a post none of us has ever wanted to write.

"Last night one of our very own had a tragic accident at the Bonfire and unfortunately passed away.

"We are obviously deeply saddened by this loss of a young life.

"John was a true Antivillian through and through born and bred, a dark cloud has certainly risen over the Antiville estate today.

"Our deepest and sincere condolences are sent from our hearts to his entire family circle at this heartbreaking time.

"Please give the family their time and privacy at this obviously hard time for them.

"Gone But Not Forgotten."

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