Kilrea designer's secret tribute to his grandparents at the finals of Funeral Awards NI
A Kilrea designer wore a special handmade keepsake to an awards ceremony for people working in the bereavement sector in memory of his grandparents.
Thomas Irwin, who was the first winner of BBC NI’s series ‘A Stitch Through Time’, was a finalist in the category of ‘Memorial Keepsake’ at Funeral Awards NI in The Crowne Plaza Belfast recently.
The awards showcase celebrates and honours professionals working within the bereavement sector, supporting families through their toughest moments.
Thomas of Crawford & Irwin said: “On the night I was wearing a gorgeous chartreuse bow tie set made from Baird McNutt Irish linen (Kells) to match the colours of the NI Funeral Awards logo.”
The bow tie was an example of one of the ‘memory sets’ for which Thomas was nominated. These sets are “made from a piece of fabric that has deep sentimental attachment regarding a loved one”.
Secretly embroidered on the back of the bow tie were the initials of Thomas’s grandparents: “On one side I had Wilbert and Hilda (Granny and Granda Crawford) along with Joe and May (my Grandfather and Grandmother Irwin) hence the name of the firm Crawford & Irwin.
"Both sides unknowingly shaping my life before I was born, the heritage Crawford & Irwin stands for.”
On the other side was the name Cathy who Thomas described as “a true light in the Irwin family. “I wanted to wear a personal memory set to this event as it is near and dear to my heart. Although not winning, being a finalist was 100% the greatest honour.
"I’d encourange everyone to donate to Cruse Bereavement on behalf of Crawford & Irwin. I’d also like to thank the families who have put their trust in me, to take their precious items that are packed full of memories and turn them into to something they can wear and love on a special occasion.”
The Funeral Awards NI were hosted by sports presenter Adrian Logan who was also wearing one of Crawford & Irwin’s limited bow tie sets. Adrian’s bow tie was made from Flax Mill Textiles Irish linen in the style “Thomas”. Flax Mill Textiles, formerly in Derrylane, Dungiven, produced top quality 100% Irish linen.