Tributes paid to Ciaran McGinn

Hundreds packed St. Patrick's and St. Brigid's Church in Ballycastle to pay their last respects to a hugely popular young man whose death has caused unspeakable sadness throughout the community.

Ciaran, (26) who lived with his parents in North Street, Ballycastle, was found dead at his home last Wednesday evening.

He was a qualified lifeguard and also worked in the fitness suite at the Marine Hotel in Ballycastle. He was the first person to swim from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island in 40 years

A member of the Hockey Club said: "Ciaran was a past captain and led by example. He was a brilliant lad and we all of us are devastated. We just never thought we would be here in these circumstances on Easter Sunday. It's heartbreaking.

"Ciaran was a big strapping, good-looking lad. It's difficult to get your head around it."

Moyle District Council Chairperson Cara McShane knew Ciaran and his family well.

She said his death had rocked the tight-knit community.

"It is very difficult to put into words the sense of devastation felt by people at this news," she said.

"The McGinns have always been great friends of my own family and we are just so sorry to hear this.

"Ciaran was an exceptional person, he had a beautiful personality and he was a real inspiration to everyone in Ballycastle and beyond, especially after his swim to Rathlin.

"I always remember seeing him running down North Street with his surf board - he just loved life."

Moyle Independent councillor Seamus Blaney spoke to Ciaran a fortnight before his death.

He said: "It's very sad. I can't understand how this has happened.

"He was a keen swimmer and did the Ballycastle to Rathlin swim to raise money for charity. It's awful."

Ciaran completed the 6.5mile stretch from Ballycastle to Rathlin in just over three hours.

A crowd of over 100 people braved the elements to welcome Ciaran back to shore following the challenge - with proud mum Mary first to congratulate her son.

All funds raised went towards the Royal National Lifeboat Institute. In 2008 he was featured in the Times in his wetsuit again, this time trying to help a stricken dolphin back out to sea after it was washed up in Ballycastle.

A natural athlete, Ciaran trained for triathlon and was a leading member of Portrush Hockey Club.

Secretary Ian Jenkins said everyone associated with the club had been stunned by the news.

"Ciaran was a superb and professional athlete, he was one of our elite players and captained our first team several years ago.

"He was so well-known and respected here within the club and well beyond.

"Everyone at the club would like to extend our sympathy to the family at this terrible time."

It is understood that Ciaran had planned a triathlon in the near future to raise funds for a charity.

Ciaran is survived by mother and father Mary and Francis, brother Francis and sister Roisin.