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Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Ollie Simmons-Watt remembered for his infectious smile after child's tragic accident

Tributes have been paid to a five-year-old boy who died while riding his bike on Thursday.

Ollie Simmons-Watt, from Limavady, died shortly after 3:40pm on September 29 after being hit by a van.

Emergency services, including Air Ambulance NI, were called to the scene and Ollie was rushed to hospital but unfortunately died from his injuries.

Read more: Five-year-old boy dies after collision with van whilst on his bike

The Co Derry boy, who attended Roe Valley Integrated Primary School, had just started Primary Two and was looking forward to the year ahead.

Tributes have now flooded in for the "wee dote" and his heartbroken family and friends.

Roe Valley Residents Association said that Ollie's smile was infectious and that he would be dearly missed by his friends.

They added: "It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of one of our young members Ollie Simmons-Watt yesterday evening.

"Ollie's smile was infectious and he was full of character. He kept everyone entertained at any activity he participated in, and he will be dearly missed by his friends, management, staff and volunteers at RVRA.

"We pass on our sympathies and condolences on to Ollie's mammy and daddy, his brother Freddie and sister Bella and the wider family circle at this very difficult time.

"The hub will be open for all young people from 6pm onwards this evening offering support and a listening ear. RIP Ollie."

Ollie Simmons-Watt from Limavady, Co Derry. (handout)

DUP MLA Alan Robinson said It was a "dark day" for Limavady. He said: "A tragedy visited our town yesterday following the passing of little Ollie Simmons.

"Limavady is a close-knit town and when something like this happens, it affects us all. Our thoughts are with everyone involved in this incident.

"No van driver, nobody driving a vehicle went out to kill a child on [Thursday]. This is just a tragic, tragic, tragic accident."

SDLP MLA Cara Hunter said the local community is “absolutely heartbroken”.

She said: “I can’t begin to imagine what his family are going through, but they have my deepest sympathies and I hope they will take some comfort from the outpouring of support at this awful time.

“Limavady is a very tight-knit area and people have been left shocked and reeling by this incident.

“I have no doubt that the local community will rally around the Simmons-Watt family in their hour of need and do all they can to help as they come to terms with this devastating loss.

“I’d like to thank the emergency services, including our ambulance and air ambulance staff who responded to this incident, and would urge anyone with any information about what happened to come forward to police as soon as possible to assist with their investigation.”

Life After, a charity which provides support to those bereaved by motor accidents, said: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of five-year-old Ollie. Simmons- Watt after he was involved in an RTC in Limavady yesterday.

"We at Life After offer our deepest sympathies to the family and wish them God's richest blessings in the days and months ahead with the reassurance that we are there to provide support and assistance if or when required."

Meanwhile, in a tribute online, one person wrote: "Can’t stop thinking about him. My heart goes out to the whole family. Everyone pray and God please give them the strength that they can get through this. Rest in peace Ollie. You were a wee dote."

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