A Portadown councillor has paid tribute to the search and rescue organisations and tireless volunteers who located the body of a man in the River Bann in late December, after a search lasting more than 40 days.

Councillor Lavelle McIlwrath, speaking at the latest council meeting of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council, said: “Many in the chamber will be aware of the disappearance of Andrew Robinson, close to the River Bann in Portadown on November 12 last year.

“Many of you will have watched and observed the lengthy and painstaking search for Andrew over the following 42 days.

“Andrew’s body was finally found and recovered from the River Bann on December 27.

The search on the River Bann for Andrew Robinson. Picture: Lough Neagh Rescue

placeholder image — The search on the River Bann for Andrew Robinson. Picture: Lough Neagh Rescue

“I just want to pay tribute to the unbelievable efforts of so many search and rescue organisations who volunteered their time and never gave up.

“Despite some awful weather conditions, they continued to search day after day, in order to bring Andrew home to his family.

“Many of the teams also travelled long distances every day to assist with the search. I want to say a special thank you, in particular, to Mark Hughes and Phillip Hand. These two men, along with [others], went the extra mile.

“It was fitting, after spending so many days in the river searching, that Mark and Phillip were the ones who found Andrew’s body. I know the Robinson family circle will be forever grateful.

Lavelle McIlwrath. Picture: Lavelle McIlwrath

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“I also know of at least two council staff who helped with the search, and again that is deeply appreciated along with the scores of churches, community groups and individuals who provided food, hot drinks and shelter for the volunteer rescue teams during the six weeks of the search.

“Finally, I just want to send my deepest condolences to the Robinson family circle who never gave up hope and maintained a vigil at the River Bann every single day.

“Your courage and fortitude in the midst of heartbreak was truly remarkable, and despite setbacks and disappointment, you persevered and brought Andrew home.

“Lord Mayor, I believe we’re going to try and organise an evening to recognise some of these people, and that is very much appreciated.”

Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray said he would do whatever he can to facilitate an evening for those involved in the search.