Widespread backing in aid of Pikers’ Fund

Joanne Stewart and Christopher Purdy presenting a cheque for £1,230 to Portadown Pikers Philip Neill, Christopher McConnell, Stephen McCann and junior members Oliver and Benn.

Pamela Harper (32) from Laurelvale was one of those people who felt inspired to raise money for the Pikers’ Fund.

She told the Times, “Daryl, one of the anglers who died, was a close friend of mine. That’s why I got in touch with local schools in the area to see if they would be interested in holding a non-uniform day to raise money for the families of the two anglers who died, David Warnock and Daryl Burke.

“I knew Daryl for 14 or 15 years. He was at my wedding when he was about 17. Myself and my husband James are getting our vows renewed in July and he was due to go to that as well.”

She added: “I’m sure Daryl’s wife is in bits. If it happened to my husband I’d be in pieces. I have kids of my own and I wouldn’t want them to be left without a dad. That’s why I wanted to raise money for the Pikers’ Fund to help the Daryl and David’s families.”

Markethill Primary School and Markethill High School held non-uniform days while Mullavilly PS, Tandragee PS and Tandragee Junior High School all made donations.

Two weeks ago Costa Coffee hosted a family fun day at which over £1,000 was raised for the Pikers’ Fund.

It was organised by 29-year-old Joanne Stewart from Tandragee, who is manager of the coffee shop in Rushmere.

She said: “When I heard what had happened at Lough Ree it touched me,” said Joanne. “That’s why I organised the fundraiser and I’d like to thank everyone who came along and gave so generously.”

Meanwhile at Shamrock Park on Tuesday a collection was made for the Portadown Pikers’ Fund which was generously supported by both Portadown and Cliftonville football clubs.