Heartbreaking scenes as Dungannon schoolboy David Shrestha carried from church through guard of honour

There were heartbreaking scenes in Dungannon today as pupils from schools across the district joined the Shrestha family in saying goodbye to 'talented, bright and considerate' David.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Sep 2016, 17:46 BST
Updated 13th Sep 2016, 09:43 BST
The funeral procession makes it way through a guard of honourThe funeral procession makes it way through a guard of honour
The funeral procession makes it way through a guard of honour

Described as “the best of Royal School Dungannon” in a statement from his school, members of the student body formed a guard of honour as his coffin was led from St Anne’s Church after his funeral service and carried down Church Street.

He was later laid to rest at Tullanisken Parish Church in Newmills.

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The talented 14-year-old sadly took his own life and was discovered on Saturday morning.

The procession made its way down Church StreetThe procession made its way down Church Street
The procession made its way down Church Street

Members of the community, sports teams for which he played and his school have all paid tribute to his “bright personality”.

“David’s loss is a huge blow to this school and our community,” said Royal School Headmaster, Dr David Burnett.

“Staff and pupils have been comforting one another with much support from parents, church and community leaders and counsellors.

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“David made a huge contribution to this school and in the broader community through church and sporting activities.”

David ShresthaDavid Shrestha
David Shrestha

The talented Rugby player was also selected this summer for the Ulster U16 development squad, was a member of Dungannon Rugby Club and played for the school team.

Although said to be happiest with a Rugby ball in his hand, he was also an outstanding swimmer and enjoyed cricket.

“Everyone who met him enjoyed his company – his enthusiasm and bright personality made others happy; his consideration of others made them feel special,” they added.

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“David was the best of RSD, in his attitude, his treatment of others and his enthusiasm. We will miss him.”

The procession made its way down Church StreetThe procession made its way down Church Street
The procession made its way down Church Street

The school opened on Sunday, providing teachers and a counsellor for students affected by his loss - a service they continued into Monday.

A post from the Royal School’s Rugby Club spoke of a David as a “determined, fearless, respectful and respected young man” who has “gone too soon”.

“We must all work together to deal with this tough time, in our teams and with our friends,” it said.

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“Always remember the good times we shared with David. Our thoughts and prayers are with Abraham, Kate, Jono, Grace and Sarah.

“David, we are so proud of you and everything you achieved. You had so much more in front of you and you have gone too soon.”