Bishop condoles with family of Ranger Aaron McCormick

Expressing his shock and sorrow at the death of the 22 year old Royal Irish Regiment soldier from Macosquin who was killed in Afghanistan, Bishop Good said: "Over this past weekend the community has shared in many solemn acts of Remembrance for those who have served their country sacrificially, and in particular for those who have given their life in time of war. To hear news of Ranger Aaron McCormick's death in Afghanistan on Remembrance Sunday brings home the enormity of the cost borne in such times of loss."

Bishop Good added: "As we shared in Acts of Remembrance on Sunday, we were all acutely aware that for the families of many service personnel, their grief is profoundly personal. The thoughts and prayers of our diocesan family go to Aaron's parents, Leslie and Margaret, to his brother and sisters, to his family circle and his many friends in this time of such enormous loss."

Similar views have been voiced by Ulster Unionist councillor in Londonderry, Mary Hamilton, who said the death of "this young man" was a tragedy and that her thoughts were with his family, friends and colleagues.

"Coming as it did on Remembrance Sunday, Aaron McCormick's death is a poignant reminder of the debt we owe those who serve our country," she added.