A WOMAN bereaved of her husband and two stepchildren in Co Sligo by suspected carbon monoxide poisoning left her own hospital bed last night to join a community prayer service for her late family members.
Sue Wallwork, who has been battling cancer in hospital, was at the head of 400 mourners at the service in the chapel of the Nazareth House, Sligo, following the deaths on December 18th.
She sat before the interdenominational service beside three coffins carrying the remains of her husband Trevor (50), his daughter Kim (12) and son Harry (9).
Investigators believe the three were overcome by carbon monoxide fumes as Mr Wallwork sat in his armchair and the children lay on the floor, watching television.
Gardaí believe a blockage in the chimney over a coal fire may have caused the poisoning. Gardaí are awaiting the results of toxicology tests in a few weeks before a formal cause of death can be announced.
The family moved to Moygara, Gurteen, Co Sligo, seven years ago. Last night, children and teachers from nearby Mullaghroe National School recalled their friendship with Kim and Harry.
Mullaghroe headmaster Kevin Gallagher remembered Harry loved playing cowboys and Indians, while Kim, an agile basketball player, always looked out for her brother.
The family’s origin is in the greater Manchester area. Mr Wallwork’s three brothers, Stanley, Charlie and Grenville, were present for the service.
Charlie Wallwork told his sister-in-law from the altar: “Sue, you gave Trevor the happiest years of his life and you were such a lovely mother to Kim and Harry.”
The bodies will be buried in England at the family’s request.