Two men killed in Mourne Mountains falls
The men, from Camlough and Banbridge, died within an hour of each other.
Two men have died in separate falls amid strong winds within an hour of each other on the Mourne Mountains on Sunday.
The first fatal incident happened on the Wee Binnian hill shortly before 12pm.
The man who fell there is understood to have been father-of-four Seán Byrne from Camlough in South Armagh. Local MLA Conor Murphy says his death has utterly devastated the local community:
"Seán was a popular and highly respected family man. He had a great love for Craobh Rua Hurling Club and the local community.
"Seán was rest assured to be seen at any fund raising Quiz or event that took place here. He was a keen photographer and would be present at hurling, cycling, running and swimming events snapping away.
"The Byrne family had a long coal and oil business tradition and would be known to many throughout south Armagh.
"We can assure them that they are in our thoughts and prayers at this dark and devastating time. We as a community will give them what support we can."
The second man fell to his death on the Slieve Commedagh mountain just before 1pm. He's been named locally as Robbie Robinson - a former Chief Superintendant in the RUC and is from Banbridge. Another man who was with Mr Robinson was also rescued by the Mourne Mountain Rescue team after becoming stuck on rocks.
And in a third incident a fourth man was injured. He fell in an area known as the Saddle, around 2.30pm, and sustained a broken ankle.
The Mourne Mountain Rescue Team supported by police and other emergency services were involved in the two recovery and one rescue operations.
Police said there were no suspicious circumstances in the deaths.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland's Air Support unit described the recovery and rescue operations as "tough and challenging''.
A tweet said: "In strong winds we managed to airlift one male out but sadly the two others had died. Our thoughts are with their loved ones.''
PSNI deputy chief constable Stephen Martin tweeted: "Sincere sympathy to the families of the two men who died. Also a heartfelt thanks to my colleagues @PSNIAirSupport, @PSNINMDown & the other emergency services who responded to these tragic events. We are very proud of you & truly appreciate what you do in the service of others.''
South Down MP Chris Hazzard expressed his condolences to the families of the two men.
"The tragic news that two men died today while walking in the Mournes will have shocked the entire local community,'' said the Sinn Fein representative.
"I'd like to commend Mountain Rescue and the emergency services who responded to today's incidents and who also rescued a third walker who got into difficulties elsewhere in the Mournes.
"My thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of those who tragically died in these incidents in the Mournes today.''
South Down Assembly member Colin McGrath, whose office is based in Newcastle at the foot of the Mournes, described conditions in the area on Sunday and offered his sympathies.
"It has been windy today in the South Down area but it hasn't felt as bad as it can be,'' the SDLP representative said on Sunday evening.
"But earlier today the PSNI had issued a warning to those using the mountains to exercise extreme care as conditions were poor.
"News that two people have died in separate incidents/falls in the mountains will come as a complete shock to the small community of mountain walkers and climbers who use the range of a regular basis.
"Such an event is chilling and shows the power of nature and how it can strike without notice as has happened with these winds today.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those that have died and those involved in the operations to assist those caught in these tragedies.''
Councillor Jill Macauley, who represents the Mournes area, also extended condolences.
"Traditionally the trails are busy at weekends with walkers and mountain enthusiasts flocking to enjoy the iconic and scenic surroundings the Mournes has to offer,'' said the Ulster Unionist.
"Unfortunately today what is a routine and enjoyable trip for many ended in absolute horror.
"I praise the quick and effective response of the police and emergency services, their professionalism and dedication second to none no matter what difficulties they encounter."