A MAN from Rookhope who died suddenly in July this year has been commemorated with a bench outside of his old school.
Paul ‘Beavis’ McCain, a father-of two, was only 42 years old when he died. His family and friends were devastated by his sudden and untimely death but he is now being remembered every day in the village in which he grew up.
The wooden bench has been funded and placed by the Business Centre as a touching tribute to Paul. Paul’s mother, Sheila, who was born and bred in the village, worked in the building for many years before it closed down as a school. Now, the whole village, including his friends who still live there have somewhere to sit and recall all the happy memories of Paul.
His friends, those he grew up with and went to school with – Andrew, Michael, Peter, Ross, Scott and Carl – have also funded and had made a special framed football shirt, which they presented to Sheila in memory of their much-missed friend. Paul was known locally for his footballing prowess, playing in teams at school and in the community for many years.
The shock of Paul’s passing is still raw in the village but his bench and Sheila’s gift from the lads will ensure his memory is not forgotten for a long time to come.
Tonight, villagers will begin the Christmas celebrations with an official lights switch on by Mark Bowman at 5:30pm. Afterwards, there will be a gathering in the Business Centre from 6pm. All attending will be able to see Paul’s Bench and allow his memory to be part of the occasion.
Everyone welcome.
