Tragedy for Galway family as 8 year-old boy dies in a farming accident

Mark Fordham, a second class student at Kiltiernan National School, died yesterday afternoon following a farming accident in Kilcolgan, Galway. Gardaí have said that the incident happened in Kilcolgan between 11am and 11.30am yesterday morning, and Mark was rushed to University Hospital Galway where he sadly passed away in the afternoon. Fr David Cribbin, parish priest for the Ballinderreen and Kinvara parishes, told Newstalk that the accident has hit the community hard.

"Everybody is absolutely heartbroken, because it's a tragedy beyond belief and there's nothing that anybody can say or do. "It's particularly sad and heartbreaking on what should be the happiest and one of the most joyful weeks of the year for families and for children. "The whole community is just heartbroken for the family"

Acting principle Bríd Fenlon at Kiltiernan National School where Mark attended says the school will ensure to provide counselling to students, staff and parents in the coming days. We are truly so sad to learn of this devastating news and know that you will join us in sending all of our love and support to Mark's heartbroken family.