Tributes paid to Tollymore drowning victim

Tributes paid to Tollymore drowning victim

19 February 2020

THE funeral of the “absolute gent” who drowned after he tried to rescue his dog from a river in Tollymore Forest Park took place on Monday.

Antrim man Arnie Clarke died last Thursday, despite frantic attempts to revive him at the scene.

The PSNI quickly confirmed that 56 year-old Mr Clarke’s death was not being treated as suspicious but rather as a tragic accident.

It is understood that the former Gaelic footballer was out walking his dog with his partner and her mother in the country park when the tragedy occurred.

The father-of-three, who had lived in France for the past three years where he worked for the Michelin company, was home on holiday.

Mr Clarke’s friend, Gerard McAuley, said that when the dog went into the Shimna River which runs through the park, Mr Clarke did not hesitate to go in after him.

“His dog went in and he went in after it to save it — that was the type of him,” said Mr McAuley.

While the dog was taken to safety, Mr Clarke got into difficulties.

Another man was reported to have entered the water in an attempt to help Mr Clarke and pulled him from the water.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, despite efforts by paramedics.

Both Naomh Comhghall GAA club and Antrim FC expressed their sorrow over the loss of a well-liked and highly regarded former player and club member.

Some friends on Facebook spoke about “such a sad loss of an absolute gent” while another described him as “a friend on and off the pitch”.

Local politicians have expressed their condolences in the wake of the tragedy.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “My sincere sympathies and I am sure those of everyone across south Down go out to the bereaved family and friends at this time.

Councillor Laura Devlin said: “We were all devastated in the Newcastle area to hear this news. A day that should have been a happy one with a walk in nature has ended so tragically. It is heartbreaking.

Councillor Willie Clarke said: “I would like to pay tribute to the efforts of the blue light emergency services and all the people who tried to assist, despite their best efforts the man ‘s life could not be saved. 

“For such a tragedy to happen while Mr Clarke was enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the forest, is heartbreaking. 

“The entire community is shocked by this incident. On behalf of the local community, I would like to convey their thoughts and prayers to the family circle.”

Requiem Mass was held for Mr Clarke at St Comgall’s Church in Antrim and he was laid to rest in the town’s Belmont Cemetery.