The funeral of popular 17-year-old Ciaran Doherty yesterday united two estates blighted by sectarian strife in recent years.

By Eamonn Houston eamonn@derrynews.net

There were moving scenes as the funeral cortege of Ciaran Doherty made its way from his Currynierin home, led by a young Celtic fan and a Rangers FC fan from the nearby Tullyally district.

The 17-year-old had died from his injuries after an horrific car accident on the outskirts Derry a week ago.

He was treated in the Royal Victoria hospital, but died despite the efforts of doctors.

Speaking to the Derry News, Fr Neil Farren, who conducted Ciaran Doherty’s Requiem mass said that his death had give rise to a minor miracle through the uniting of two communities.

“The family had been praying for a miracle that his health would be restored, but there was another little miracle in the numbers from both communities who were present at the wake and in the Church.

“There were quite a few people from the Tullyally area and it seemed that barriers had been broken down by Ciaran’s death for a lot of people.”

Friends of the dead teenager wore Celtic shirts bearing his nickname ‘Walla’ and the number 91 signifying the year in which he was born.

Ciaran Doherty’s parents, Charlie and Eugenia were comforted by friends and relatives as the cortege was brought to the church.

On the steps, Fr Farren, shook the hands of the young man wearing the Rangers shirt.

Police investigating the circumstances of the crash yesterday issued a new appeal for information.
“Mr Doherty was a passenger in a Ford Mondeo car that was involved in a collision at Ardmore Road at about 3.30am on Sunday June 1.
“Anyone who was on the road at the time and saw what happened is asked to contact police at Waterside. The number to call with any information is 0845 600 8000,” a spokesperson said.