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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Lauren Harte

Young North Belfast man Niall McCullough remembered as a 'true fighter'

The tragic death of a young North Belfast man is being mourned by family and friends in both Northern Ireland and England, where he lived and worked.

Niall McCullough, who had been based in Wolverhampton, passed away in hospital on Wednesday following an accident earlier this month.

The 27-year-old, orginally from Windermere Gardens in the Cavehill area, had been on life support for organ donation but after unexpected brain activity, he was kept alive for a week before his death.

Read more: Joseph Ritch tributes as Belfast man saves three lives through organ donation

His devastated parents Margaret and Billy McCullough and siblings Tiarnan and Niamh are being comforted by family and friends.

It's the second tragedy to hit the family as Niall's younger sister Caoimhe died in December 2015 aged 12 following a heart condition.

Posting on social media, Niamh McCullough wrote: "After a long hard fight, Niall has went off to be with lil sis. Look after each other, and look over mummy and daddy. They need it now more than ever."

Niall was a past pupil of St Malachy's College, which also paid its own tribute.

In a statement, the school said: "The college community are saddened to learn of the death of past pupil Niall McCullough - class of 2013.

"Niall passed away following an accident while living in England. We will keep his family in our prayers and thoughts. May Niall rest in peace."

The young mechanic was heavily involved in kickboxing and was previously a member of Bodyshots in Newtownabbey and later TMA Trojans in Walsall.

Niall had been working as a bike building co-ordinator at Citadel Logistics Centre in Wolverhampton where he was "a much loved colleague" who would be remembered for his "knowledge and kind nature".

Paying tribute the company said: "Niall always worked with the customer at the heart of what he did, seeking to assemble bikes as well as he could for the enjoyment of the rider.

"We enjoyed hearing the stories of his weekly duels, sparing sessions and amidst the camaraderie of the workshop team, Niall remained a gentle giant.

"Niall was a true fighter and it goes without saying that he will be sadly missed by his colleagues who after his time in Wolverhampton quickly became friends.

"We have lost a much loved colleague, and our thoughts and prayers go to his family who have memories of a much loved family member."

One colleague posted: "Still trying to come to terms with this. One of the best lads I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Still waiting on you messaging into the group chat."

Another added: "One of life's good guys. Rest easy champ."

Read more: Warning after NI couple scammed out of almost £80,000 in minutes

Read more: Ross Road Belfast fire which left residents without power overnight believed to be 'deliberate'

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