MAYOR of Derry City and Strabane District council Elisha McCallion has led the tributes to Candystripes legend Mark Farren who tragically died this morning after valiantly trying fend off the ravages of cancer.
The 33-year-old popular player, both on and off the pitch, was the club’s record goal-scorer.
His sad passing has devastated not just Derry City FC, its players and fans, but the wider Derry community and those in Greencastle, Co Donegal were he hailed from.
Derry’s Mayor Elisha McCallion expressed her sympathy to the Farren and Holmes family to their loss.
“This is a very sad day for the people of Derry and Donegal,” said Mayor McCallion.
“Mark was a true gentlemen in every sense of the word.
“He loved sport and was a real ambassador for soccer across the North West.
“I had the honour of hosting a reception for Mark, his wife Terri and his extended family members last year in the Guildhall.
“I was deeply touched by their resilience and determination to do all they could to help Mark battle against his illness and at the positive way in which they coped.
“The support from the public for Mark was truly phenomenal, everyone got behind him and the efforts he and his family made to battle against his illness.
“He will be greatly missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Terri , his parents Michael and Kathleen, his sisters Bridget and Katrina, brother Philip and wider Farren and Holmes families in Derry and Greencastle on their sad loss.”
She added: “Rest in peace Mark.”
Politicians from across Derry have also paid tribute to Mark on his passing.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood post on Facebook: “Terrible news about Mark Farren. @derrycityfc fans have lost a hero. RIP.”
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinnness tweeted: “Heartbreaking that @derrycityfc #legend Mark Farren has died.
“A great footballer & gentleman. My thoughts with Terri-Louise & their families.”
A massive fundraising campaign was launched last year to raise money needed to send Mark for specialist treatment in Mexico in a bid to beat the illness.
But sadly Mark lost his fight this morning surrounded by his sorrowing family.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
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