Hi °C | Lo °C The man killed in a workplace accident was the greatest friend anyone could wish to have, his best pal of more than 50 years has said.
Peter Lennon, who was in his 50s, was killed in the tragedy at the A Diamond & Son timber sawmill in Coleraine, Co Londonderry.
The accident happened at around 9am on Thursday at the firm on Newmills Road in the town.
Christopher McCandless and Mr Lennon had been friends since they were toddlers.
Mr Lennon was best man at Mr McCandless’s wedding, and when they were children Mr Lennon gave his friend the nickname ‘Dusty’, which has stuck with him for five decades.
“He was a good fella and a good mate of mine, a very happy fella,” said Mr McCandless.
“We were friends since we were three years of age.
“We were Protestant and Catholic friends growing up during the Troubles.
“We used to ride motorbikes together and he was my best man on my wedding day.”
It is believed that Mr Lennon had three children with wife Anne, as well as grandchildren.
“It was a big shock when I heard the news today,” Mr McCandless added.
“He was the best friend anyone could ever ask for. He was true and he was loyal and he enjoyed life.
“He will be missed a lot locally, but in particular by his family because family was everything to him.”
The circumstances of Mr Lennon’s death have not been released and the Health and Safety Executive is investigating the accident.
Alliance councillor Yvonne Boyle offered her condolences to the man's family and friends.
“This is a tragic accident,” she said.
“I hope that (the Health and Safety Executive) will be able to provide answers to the family and ensure that this accident is not repeated.
“There have been several workplace deaths in recent years, so I would encourage all businesses to ensure that their safety regulations are up to standard,” Ms Boyle added.
