Tribute to father-of-one killed in workplace accident

A TYRONE rugby club has paid a poignant tribute to the father-of-one killed in a workplace accident at a peat plant in Dungannon today.

Phillip Moore (pictured above), late of Glassdrummond Road, Aughnacloy, died after the incident at Westland Horticulture in Granville Industrial Estate this morning.

It is understood that Mr Moore dedicated his whole rugby career to playing for Clogher Valley RFC, where he has been described as a “true club legend”.

In a statement, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for Northern Ireland said they are aware of the tragic death.

“HSENI is aware of the incident at Westland Peat, Dungannon, and is making enquiries. Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family at this tragic time,” said a spokesperson for the HSE NI.

Paying tribute to the club stalwart on Facebook, Clogher Valley RFC posted, “It is with deep regret we have been informed that our friend and playing colleague Phillip Moore passed away this morning after an accident at work. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Ruth, daughter Lilly and the family.”

As well as playing for Clogher Valley, Mr Moore also represented the Ulster under-18 side between 1998 and 2000 and turned out for Ulster Juniors for more than a decade.

The tribute continued, “He was immense on the pitch and a true gentleman off the pitch. He was part of the winning Towns Cup teams and the Junior Cup and many league titles, he was feared by many opposition props on the pitch.

“Phillip will be sadly missed by all around Clogher Valley Rugby Club on and off the pitch.”

He is survived by his wife Ruth, daughter Lilly, parents Lawrence and Eva, brother Mark, sister Naomi and wider family circle.

House and funeral private due to the current circumstances.