PSNI advise of Coleraine traffic restrictions as large crowds expected for funeral of WW2 veteran Norman Irwin BEM

A Service of Thanksgiving for the life of the WW2 veteran will take place at New Row Presbyterian Church at 11.30am.

The police said: “Road users are advised that vehicular access to Coleraine town centre pedestrian zone will be restricted on the morning of Saturday, between approximately 10.30am to 12.30pm, 19th September due to a funeral taking place.

"A large crowd is anticipated and officers will be in attendance to control traffic and assist with access for deliveries where possible.”

Mr Irwin’s family announced the passing of the Coleraine man on September 2.

Mr Irwin’s grandson Chris made the announcement on behalf of the family on social media, saying: “It is with profound sadness, that our family announces the passing of my grandfather, Sergeant Norman Irwin BEM.

"A proud WWII veteran who served across North Africa and Italy with the Coleraine Battery, Royal Artillery and REME, Norman was Ireland and Northern Ireland’s oldest man, a British Empire Medal recipient, and a pillar of the local community.

"To the world, he was a hero and a piece of history, but to us, he was simply Papa. His warmth, wit, and wisdom guided our family for generations and always with a glass of Bushmills.

"Norman exemplified the REME motto, Arte et Marte ("By Skill and By Fighting"). "Rest easy. Your watch is finally over, but your legacy will live on in every single one of us.”

A family notice described Mr Irwin as a “dearly loved husband of the late Margaret, much loved father of David, Elizabeth and the late Margaret and Joy; adored and much loved grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather”.

The Service of Thanksgiving will be followed by interment in Coleraine Cemetery. Family flowers only with donations requested for the Community Rescue Service.