A FARMER who lost his life in a tragic quad bike accident on a Co. Derry farm at the weekend has been named.
Hugh Henry, 50s, was fatally injured in Ringsend, near Coleraine on Saturday afternoon.
Ambulance crews and the air ambulance were sent to the scene at about 4.50pm, but the father-of-two was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a statement, the HSE said they were aware of the tragic incident and making enquiries.
A spokesperson said: "The Health and Safety Executive extends its deepest sympathies to the man's family at this difficult time".
SDLP MLA John Dallat has paid tribute to Mr Henry, who was a personal friend.
He said: “The entire community is reeling with shock following the untimely death. The whole family have been associated with livestock for generations back.
"My deepest sympathy goes to his wife and family who will need the support of everyone as they come to terms with the outcome of another farm accident.
"While this is not the time to speculate on what happened, it does underline just how dangerous an occupation farming is even when best practice isn't enough to prevent accidents involving life and death.
"This is a very sad time for the Henry family and all those who knew Hugh and respected him as a farmer involved in the cattle trade."
Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald also paid tribute, adding: "This death has shocked the local community and I send my sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Hugh Henry at this difficult time".
Mr Henry's death comes just over a week after a man, aged in his early 20s, was killed on a farm in Co. Down on May 4.
HSE figures show that between 2016 and 2018, farmers suffered a higher rate of fatal injury than any other occupation - around 18 times higher than the All Industry rate.
