On the altar were the symbols of their lives — a picture of the much-loved Red Anglia they drove, and a crucifix resting on a pair of hands, to symbolise how they worked together.

Deaf rights campaigners have pleaded for official recognition for Irish Sign Language to help prevent more tragedies such as the lonely deaths of brothers Daniel and William McCarthy.

Update: 6.05pm ALONE, the charity that supports older people to age at home, is urging older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated not to be afraid to ask for the help.