West Belfast shopkeeper was a ‘pillar of the community’
Tributes have been paid to a West Belfast shopkeeper, who tragically died after a collision in Crumlin.
Robert Laverty was a well-known retailer, who ran the Newsflash newsagents in the Dairy Farm Shopping Centre for almost three decades. Police confirmed he died following a two-vehicle road traffic collision at Moira Road, Crumlin on Wednesday 31st May.
A PSNI spokesperson said officers had attended the scene of the crash involving a Ford Fiesta and a Renault Scenic, with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
“Sadly, the driver of the Renault Scenic died at the scene. The driver of the Ford Fiesta, a man in his 20s, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries,” said Detective Sergeant McIvor from the PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit.
‘PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY’
In a tribute on their social media, Dairy Farm Shopping Centre said 74-year-old Mr Laverty would be “missed by all” adding he was a “dear friend”.
“Robert was a pillar of our community serving customers for nearly 30 years from the Newsflash,” they said.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Robert’s family at this very sad time. Robert will be missed by all.”
Friends, colleagues and customers also paid tribute to Mr Laverty, describing him as a “character” and a “lovely chap” with many saying they would miss their daily chats with a “true gentleman”.
