Sadness and sympathy as Sam Dickson, renowned for his beautiful 'Ulster's Marching Akitas', passes away

Mr Dickson took part in many parades each year and was an unmissable figure with his beautiful dogs, nicknamed ‘Ulster’s Marching Akitas’, bringing a smile to the faces of thousands of on-lookers.

Hundreds of messages of sympathy have been extended on social media since news of his death was announced, including from those in bands who had enjoyed his company over the years and members of the public who may not have known Mr Dickson’s name but loved to see him and his impeccably turned-out and well-trained dogs on parade.

One woman posted: “A great loss not only to his family but the bands scene. Every band wanted Sam and the beautiful dogs to lead them.”

Constable Anderson Memorial Flute Band in Larne had a long association with Mr Dickson, who lived in Limavady.

A spokesperson for the band said: “The officers and members of the band are truly heartbroken upon learning news of the passing of our dear friend Sam Dickson.

"We considered Sam a part of our band family, from the very first time he walked with us and as the years went on, we developed a genuine friendship.

"Sam done every band that he marched with proud each time he kindly walked in their ranks, asking nothing in return and his presence will be greatly missed across the country and within the band scene.

"We are proud to have known such a kind gentleman and our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Dickson family circle and of course his beloved Marching Akitas, at this tragic time.”

The band has set up an online fundraising page to help ‘repay Sam for his years of kindness’. So far more than £3,000 has been raised.

"After discussion with his family we have been given permission to fundraise in his memory and any donations made will help with funeral costs, caring for his beloved Akitas and go towards two charities that have been close to Sam‘s heart.

"Any donation made no matter how small will be greatly appreciated. A chance to repay Sam for his years of kindness within the band scene,” the Constable Anderson Memorial Flute Band spokesperson added.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the JustGiving online fundraiser can find the page here.

A funeral notice said Mr Dickson passed away peacefully on Friday, January 13 at Altnagelvin Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

He is described as “devoted father of Laurie, Hayley, Lloyd, father-in-law of Laura also Lloyd’s partner Chantal. Loving son of Philomena, and granda-to-be, dad of his much loved pups, Angel, Ashe, Sirius and Ghost. Also a dear brother and uncle.”

His funeral service will be held in Drumachose Presbyterian Church in Limavady on Tuesday at 2pm followed by burial in adjoining churchyard.

Mr Dickson’s family have requested family flowers only, but donations if desired can be made to the Intensive Care Unit at Altnagelvin Hospital with cheques payable to ICU Altnagelvin Hospital (WHSCT) and forwarded to Brown’s Funeral Directors, 21 Aghanloo Industrial Estate. Aghanloo Road, Limavady.

Sympathies have been expressed from far and wide following the news of Mr Dickson’s passing.

A spokesperson for Loyalist Corcrain Redmanville bonfire in Portadown expressed “deepest sympathy and condolences to entire family circle of Sam Dickson, master of Ulster's Marching Akitas”.

"Sam over the few years of knowing and working with us immediately developed mutual ground with regards to expressing our culture and beliefs, especially being a drum major himself ... You will be sorely missed our friend.”

Portadown Defenders Flute Band also extended their condolences.

"The officers and members of the band are extremely saddened at the sudden passing of a loyal friend to many, Sam Dickson,” a spokesperson said.

"We had the pleasure and privilege of having Sam and his marching Akitas parade with us as part of our 50th anniversary. We are proud to have known such a loyal gentleman and our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Dickson family circle.”

The officers and members of Craigneuk True Defenders Flute Band in North Lanarkshire, Scotland said they were saddened to hear of the passing of their “good friend”.

A spokesperson for the outfit said: “The friendship between the band and Sam was special, especially with his proud and beautiful marching Akitas by his side. Immaculately presented both Sam the dogs proudly marched the streets of Scotland plus his beloved Ulster.

"Part of the Craigneuk True Defenders family, Sam Dickson you’ll never be forgotten.”