OBITUARY: Carnlough man Brian was ‘a great servant’ for coastal rowing in Ireland

Brian was a highly-respected figure in the sport of coastal rowing around the island of Ireland.

As well as holding the office of chairman of Carnlough Rowing Club, Brian was also chair of the Antrim Coastal Rowing Association and vice president of the Irish Coastal Rowing Federation (ICRF).

He worked for engineering firm McLaughlin and Harvey for over 50 years, and was involved in a number of projects in the Larne harbour area.

John Gibbons, treasurer of Carnlough Rowing club said he could not praise Brian enough for his commitment to the sport over the years.

He added: “Brian was a terrific man who was well-respected and highly liked in Carnlough and beyond.

“His club was his passion and he sought to introduce as many young people to the sport as possible.”

John also credits Brian with being the driving force behind the universal rowing boat, which was first introduced when Carnlough hosted the All Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships back in 2002.

Tributes also flowed in on social media sites, with the ICRF posting on Facebook: “Brian was a great servant to Irish Coastal Rowing and he was an even greater leader.”

Brian’s funeral was held in St John the Evangelist Church, Carnlough on January 9, and he was buried in the parish cemetery.

He is survived by wife Peggy, five children and several grandchildren.