Community stunned by farm deaths

Community stunned by farm deaths

19 September 2012

THE funeral takes place in Ballynahinch today of a father and his two sons who died in a tragic farming accident at the weekend.

Fifty-two year-old Noel Spence and his sons, Graham (30) and Nevin (22), died in a slurry tank accident at their farm between Annahilt and Hillsborough on Saturday evening.

A fourth member of the family, Mr. Spence’s daughter Emma, was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital after being overcome by fumes during the horrific incident. She was released from hospital on Sunday night.

Their funeral takes place at 2pm in Ballynahinch Baptist Church where the Spence family worshipped.

The other surviving members of the family are Mrs. Essie Spence, and another daughter, Laura. Graham is also survived by his wife Andrea and two young children, Nathan and Georgia.

The shocking nature of the tragedy has evoked an outpouring of sympathy and support from all sections of the community.

The Spence family had strong connections with the Ballynahinch area. As well as being members of the local Baptist Church, Graham and Nevin both played for Ballynahinch Rugby Club where a book of condolence has been opened. The club flag has been flying at half mast as a mark of respect.

The club chairman, Philip Gregg, said he learned of the tragedy on Sunday morning after arriving back from a ten-day trip to America.

“My reaction was one of total shock,” he said. “I am still in semi-shock, as are many members of Ballynahinch Rugby Club.

“The entire club wishes to express sympathy with the Spence family in what can only be described as tragic circumstances. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

“The Spence family are highly respected as members of the farming community, the rugby community and Ballynahinch Baptist Church.

“We will offer whatever help we can in the weeks ahead. Some of our members are farmers and they will do whatever they can.”

A huge attendance is expected at this afternoon’s funeral. The Rev. Rodney Stout, senior pastor at the church, issued a statement on behalf of the family.

“The Spence family are trying very hard to come to terms with their tragic,” the statement said. “The three men were close to each other in life, and that love was expressed in their final moments trying to help each other.

“The family is being supported and comforted by other family members, friends and neighbours.”

Pastor Stout said the three men were all “incredibly gentle, decent and hard working, with a deep sense of family loyalty.”

Pastor Stout said he had visited the Spence home since the tragedy and the family were just beginning to come to terms with what had happened.

He said the tragedy would have a huge effect on a very tight-knit community.

The accident happened at the Drumlough Road farm around 6pm on Saturday. The Health and Safety Executive (HSENI) said two of its senior inspectors attended the scene that evening.

A statement from HSENI said: “From HSENI’s initial investigations, it understands that the three family members who entered an underground slurry tank died from the effects of exposure to slurry gases.

“The exact sequence of events is not yet clear, but HSENI is investigating a definite line of enquiry.”

Ballynahinch Rugby Club will be open every night this week from 6pm to 9pm for anyone, members and non-members, wishing to sign the book of condolence.

Another book of condolence has been opened at Ravenhill rugby ground where a memorial service for Nevin will be held this Sunday at 3pm.