Edwin Crawford helped '˜spark' Gobbins cliff path revival

Irene and Louise Crawford unveil a plaque in memory of Husband and Father, Edwin,who was a large part of Island life. INLT 51-243-AM

Edwin Laing Crawford, who passed away in May last year at the age of 72, was a founder member of Islandmagee Community Development Association when it was established in 1996.

Chairman of the association, Robin McIlwain, told the Times that Portmuck man Edwin had “helped get the ball rolling” on the Gobbins cliff path regeneration.

Robin added: “Edwin was very skilled at networking and was involved in a number of EU funding programmes.

“Over the years, there had been several attempts to secure money for a feasibility study to see if the Gobbins regeneration project would be possible.

“Through his contacts, Edwin was able to help secure EU funding for the study, so he was really the spark that started the whole process.

“He was a very reserved, yet extremely dedicated man. He served on the Gobbins steering committee and never missed a meeting.

“Edwin really wanted to be there to see the fruits of his labour, but sadly he passed away just months before the opening of the Gobbins.

“His contributions have finally been recognised with the erection of a plaque at the visitors’ centre. A tree was also planted in his memory.”