Hundreds attend funeral of ‘little angel’ Oliver Scullion

Little Oliver, who was to start Harmony Hill Primary School in coming weeks, was described as a ‘beautiful child’ during the service at McCracken Memorial Presbyterian Church on the Malone Road.

It’s believed a large metal tank fell on the youngster at Hilden Brewery, where his father, Owen, worked.

His father suffered a broken ankle as a result of the accident.

Oliver’s mother Jenny, who had a baby boy just weeks ago, penned a poem which was read in the church by a family friend.

Yvonne Craig, of Harmony Hill Primary School’s board of governors, said it was a ‘very moving’ service conducted by Rev Brian McCroskery.

“It was a lovely service,” she said,“some of it sad, some of it happy.

“Oliver was full of hugs and kisses and enjoyed playing with his sister on the settee.

“Many people were both laughing and crying by the end of it.”

Pictures of Oliver covered the church hall and there was also a book of condolence for mourners to sign.

Hymns including ‘Jesus Loves Me’ and ‘The Lord is My Shepherd were sung during the service and the minister read from Corinthians 1 chapter 13.

Also attending the funeral were television personality Pamela Ballentine and local Councillors Steven Martin, Jenny and John Palmer and Pat Catney.

Mr Catney described Oliver as a ‘little angel’ who was much loved.

“This little blond four-year-old wonder enchanted everyone who met him,” he said. “He was part of the life at the brewery.

“Oliver was a force of nature. “

Health and safety inspectors have been investigating the the circumstances in which the fatal accident took place.

Established by Ann and Seamus Scullion, who also own the Molly’s Yard close to Queen’s University, Hilden Brewing Company is one of Ireland’s oldest independent brewers.

A three-day craft beer and music festival due to take place later this month has been cancelled.

Oliver is survived by his parents Owen and Jenny, sister, Maia and brother, Patrick.