Hundreds attend funeral of murdered Catholic teenager

Hundreds of mourners are attending the funeral today of the 15-year-old Catholic schoolboy who was beaten to death by a loyalist gang in Ballymena earlier this month.

People from both the Catholic and Protestant communities have turned out to show their sympathy for the family of Michael McIlveen and their abhorrence of the sectarian killing.

Local schoolchildren are also due to wear Celtic and Rangers jerseys as part of a guard of honour in a show of cross-community unity.

Michael McIlveen was walking home with friends 10 days ago when they were attacked by a gang of loyalists who beat the 15-year-old with baseball bats.

He died in hospital the following day.

Seven teenagers have been charged in connection with the murder.

Speaking at the requiem mass today, Fr Paul Symonds said the youngster would not have died in vain if his passing created a new cross-community spirit in Ballymena.

He said new friendships had already been forged across the divide in the wake of the killing.

The Bishop of Down and Connor, Dr Patrick Walsh, also said disparate voices must unite not only to condemn the murder, but also all manifestations of sectarianism like flags, painted kerbstones and murals.