Tyrone mum grieving loss of ‘bubbly little boy’

THE mother of a three-year-old boy killed in a tragic road traffic collision in Scotland last week is originally from west Tyrone.

Victoria Irvine and her young son Xander were out for a walk when he was struck by a car in the Morningside Road area of Edinburgh on Tuesday, June 30.

Sadly, the little boy suffered fatal injuries. His funeral is taking place this morning (Thursday).

It is understood that Mrs Irvine (nee Hempton), a 37-year-old primary school teacher, is a former pupil of Omagh Academy.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, the family said, “Xander Paul Thomas Irvine, three-years-old, was out for a walk in Morningside with his mother on Tuesday afternoon when a tragic accident occurred.

“Xander was a very happy, bubbly, intelligent little boy who was very dearly loved by his parents Victoria and Paul. Xander was a real chatterbox who just loved books, playing with all sorts of vehicles and his Lego. He really enjoyed life and he enriched the lives of everyone he met.

“Victoria and Paul are devastated and feel as if their hearts have been ripped out. Xander will be so very sorely missed by them both and all his family and friends in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“His parents would like to thank the paramedics, police, the fire and rescue service and members of the public for their help at the scene of the accident.

“Also, thank you to all the hospital staff and the police liaison for their help and to the public for their support to both Victoria and Paul and their families.

“What will we do without you Xander?”