Sid passed away at the weekend and when word got round, the community was greatly saddened.

Indeed, a bouquet of flowers and a message of condolence was laid on Sid’s most favoured resting spot - a park bench outside Holy Trinity Church in the Diamond area.

The message from someone called Aisling encapsulated much of Sid’s life and the sorrow felt by those who knew him:

‘Sid, Your heart was made of the purest gold but because of those who always led you astray,

We shall never see you recover and grow majestically old,

Already I am missing you more than words can say.

Rest in peace Sid, you are safe now and free from torment.

Aislingxxx

Shopkeepers and residents spoke of how Sid had been a great worker with a pleasant personality who would have caused no offence or harm to anyone.

Everyone recognised he had a problem, but Sid was never shunned and could find a warm welcome and a smile from anyone at anytime.

Thought to be in his early 40’s, Sid is survived by his parents, Rosemary and Patrick and was the brother of Mary, Teresa, Anne, David, Kieran, Michael and Fiona.

Sympathy is extended to his family.