Buncrana tragedy: Son’s last phonecall - ‘Mammy, I miss you’

The sight of five coffins being carried up the steps of the Holy Family Church was beyond heartbreaking.

Derry City has witnessed many sorrowful scenes in its often troubled history. But yesterday’s funeral service was as heart-wrenching as any other dark chapter in this proud but battered city’s history.

Mourners gathered at the church in Ballymagroarty long before the five hearses bearing those who perished in Donegal’s waters on Sunday evening arrived just before 2pm.