A hurling club in Co. Antrim has been left devastated by the passing of a six-year-old superfan following a tragic accident on Friday.

Carey Faughs says it is ‘heartbroken’ at the death of young Joe Hegarty, a pupil of St Patrick’s & St Brigid’s Primary School in Ballycastle who never missed a match.

In a heartfelt tribute, the club said: “All at Carey Faughs are heartbroken at the devastating news of Joe Hegarty's passing.

“The community wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Michael, Andrea & Katie along with the Hegarty & McIlroy families on their loss.

“Joe loved Carey Faughs & we all loved Joe.

“It wouldn't have been a Carey match if Joe wasn't there, cheering the boys on, home or away. He knew every player and their positions for every match. Half-time and he would be on the pitch taking his points with great ease. He just loved to be at the hurling field.

“Joe was a character and his light shone very brightly, he made friends wherever he went. It wouldn't be often that you would see Joe in anything else but his Carey gear.

“Like his mum and dad, Joe led from the front. Michael and Andrea are great ambassadors of Carey Faughs and work hard at promoting underage Gaels of the club with Faughs Óg, alongside Joe's Aunt Lauren.

“Some of our current players played alongside and were coached by Michael over the years and he helped coach the team last year, alongside Joe's uncle Patrick (and Joe too).

“We are a community sharing in their heartbreak and hope that we can give them enough love and support to help them through their unimaginable loss.

“I think it's safe to say that Joe was Carey's No.1 fan.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

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