‘Gentle giant’ killed by stray bullet is laid to rest

A Royal Irish Regiment ranger, described at his funeral Mass as a gentle giant, was laid to rest with military honours yesterday after he was killed by a stray bullet during a training exercise in Wales.

Ranger Michael Maguire, who was due to celebrate his 22nd birthday today, was fondly remembered as a deeply professional soldier and one of the best in his British battalion.

At his funeral Mass at St Joseph’s Church, Coomhola, near Bantry, Co Cork, the coffin bearing his 6ft 7in frame was draped in the colours of the Royal Irish Regiment, together with his caubeen and belt.