Northern Ireland

Armagh farm tragedy victim named locally as Richard Ruddell

Mr Ruddell was a father-of-three and a well-known local businessman

The late Richard Ruddell who died on Friday evening. PHOTO: PORTADOWN RFC
The late Richard Ruddell who died on Friday evening. PHOTO: PORTADOWN RFC
By Catherine McGinty

The Co Armagh man who died in a tragic farming incident has been named locally as father-of-three and local businessman Richard Ruddell.

The 55-year old, who owned farm shops in Armagh and Down, died at a farm near Lurgan on Friday night.

Paying tribute, Portadown Rugby Club said: “It is with huge sadness we learn of the sudden and tragic passing of Richard Ruddell.

“Richard was a familiar face around Chambers Park. Behind the wheel of his tractor, working on the pitches or cheering on his two sons. Richard was never too far away!

“The Ruddells have given so much to the Portadown community and to Portadown RFC. They are as a family, amongst the kindest and most selfless people.

“Sam, plays for our U18s and Caleb for the College. Sarah has organised events at our club, indeed the tractor run in the coming days was organised by Richard and Sarah.

“Please keep Caroline, Sarah, Sam and Caleb in your prayers. They have lost a much loved husband and father.

“We have lost a much loved and respected friend,” said Portadown Rugby Club.

Tribute was also paid to Mr Ruddell by Glenavon Football Club.

The club said: “The club are saddened to hear of the passing Richard Ruddell, brother of former director George.

“We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the entire Ruddell family circle at this sad time.”

A PSNI spokesman said the death is not being treated as supicious

He said: “Police received a report of the sudden death of a man aged in his 50s in the Ballynery North Road area of Lurgan on Friday evening, July 26. Officers attended the scene alongside colleagues from other emergency services.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed.”

HSE said: “HSENI were informed of an incident on a farm in the Lurgan area yesterday evening, July 26.

“Inspectors have attended the scene and are making further enquiries.”