The grieving families of a mum and her two children, who died in a shooting tragedy in Fermanagh, and the suspect in their deaths, have issued an emotional message of thanks for the outpouring of support they have received.
Vanessa Whyte and her 14-year-old son James and daughter Sara, 13, were killed in an incident in Maguiresbridge in July, where Ian Rutledge, believed to be the only suspect in their deaths, was also killed.
At their funeral service in August, her sister Regina made the heartbreaking admission that the family was taking a small measure of comfort that Vanessa and her children would be together forever.
Now both the Hoy and Rutledge families have spoken out to thank all of those who have shared their support in the worst of times.
Keith Elliot of W T Morrison Funeral Directors issued the message of thanks on behalf of the families, which read: 'The Rutledge and Hoy families wish to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone who supported and sympathised with us during our recent heartbreaking loss.
'A special word of thanks to the people of Fermanagh who took time to stop their cars, vans, and buses and to those who were standing along the roadside as Vanessa, James and Sara made their way from the funeral home at Ballycassidy to Maguiresbridge, across Fermanagh, one last time.'
The message goes on to thank staff at the Killyhevlin Hotel who formed a guard of honour that day and states that 'these acts of respect meant more than anyone could ever imagine.'
The families also singled out the PSNI, and all of the young people who lined the streets for the funeral cortege, as well as members of the clergy who officiated over, and those who took part in the funeral service.
'Heartfelt thanks' was also issued to the members of the emergency services who attended to the family, 'in the most extreme services, we trust that you will always know how much your care and professionalism is appreciated.'
The message signs off saying: 'We are deeply grateful to all our relatives, friends, family and neighbours for their kindness.
'To all those who sent food, cooked meals, offered practical help with the farm, sent cards, and travelled to be with us at this most difficult time.
'As it's not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude from the entire family during this sad and difficult time.'
