By Joe McCann
TRIBUTES have been paid to a respected figure in Northern Ireland’s bowling community after a Holywood man died following a road traffic collision in Co Tyrone.
Damien Bintley (45), a member of Belmont Bowling Club and Honorary League Secretary of the Northern Ireland Private Greens League (NIPGL), died after the collision on the Crossowen Road, Clogher, on Friday afternoon.
PSNI Inspector Stewart from the Police Service’s Collision Investigation Unit said Mr Bintley’s vehicle was involved in a collision with a lorry.
He said: “We received a report at approximately 12.40pm on Friday afternoon of a collision involving a white MG HS car and a Volvo lorry on the Crossowen Road.
“Officers attended, alongside Northern Ireland Ambulance Service colleagues and medical treatment was provided at the scene to a number of people.
“The driver of the MG HS car, 45 year- old Damien Paul Bintley from Holywood, sadly died from his injuries a short time later.
“We would like to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured dash- cam or other footage which could assist with our ongoing enquiries.”
In a tribute posted on Facebook, the Northern Ireland Private Greens League described Mr Bintley as an outstanding servant of the sport.
“It is with profound sadness that the Northern Ireland Private Greens League (NIPGL) announces the tragic passing of our Honorary League Secretary, esteemed colleague and friend, Damien Bintley, following a road traffic accident yesterday afternoon.
“On behalf of the League, we extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Damien’s wife, Vicky, the entire Bintley family and the wider family circle at this time of unimaginable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are also with Damien’s two daughters and niece as they recover in hospital, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
“Damien dedicated so much of his life to the sport of bowls. A member of Belmont Bowling Club since 1999, he proudly represented Ireland at Under-25 level before giving many years of outstanding voluntary service as honorary league secretary of the NIPGL. His professionalism, integrity and unwavering commitment earned him the respect and admiration of bowlers throughout the province.
“In recent years, Damien was a valued member of Salisbury Bowling Club and remained equally committed to the promotion of short mat bowls during the winter season.
“Above all, he will be remembered as a true gentleman whose kindness, generosity and friendship touched so many within our bowling family.
“Damien’s passing is a tremendous loss to the Northern Ireland Private Greens League and to the wider bowling community. His dedication to the sport and his lasting contribution will never be forgotten.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone associated with the NIPGL remain with Damien’s family, friends and all who mourn his passing.”
Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the collision to contact them on 101, quoting reference 705 of July 31, or via the PSNI’s online appeals port.
