MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO STUART’S DEATH

THE man charged with the death of Stuart Wilson has pleaded guilty, the Leader has learned.

Damian McCann, 37, from Sandy Hill in Newry, pleaded guilty to manslaughter earlier this month.

He will be sentenced on February 8 at Newry Courthouse.

The six-year-old was being towed on a wake board at Cranfield beach when the accident happened on in August 2010.

The youngest of four children, he had been spending the summer holidays in the area with his family when the tragic accident occurred.

The child suffered serious head injuries after being hit by the speedboat. He died at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.

Rathfriland came to a standstill as large numbers gathered to pay their respects at his funeral.

Mourners packed St John’s Church of Ireland and several hundred stood outside for the funeral service led by the rector, Reverend David Somerville.

He recalled Stuart fondly, describing his love of sport - and especially the football club at Iveagh Park - his enthusiasm in church and Sunday School and his mischievous streak. “He was a regular wee imp but adorable with it,” said David.

In an earlier statement, the family said that, although devastated by the death of their son and brother, they were glad that their last memories were of Stuart doing something he loved with his family and friends.