Ballycastle tragedy: Father who lost his wife and three year-old daughter is at the bedside of surviving daughter 'wee Hannah'

Ryan Smyth's wife, Clare and little daughter, Bethany, sadly lost their lives in the collision on Whitepark Road.

Mr. Smyth's other daughter, Hannah, was airlifted to hospital from the scene.

Mr. Smyth remains at his daughter's bedside in the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Belfast.

Rev John Stanbridge, Minister of Ballycastle and Croaghmore Presbyterian Church has spoken to Mr. Smyth and urged as many people as possible to now pray for his "wee Hannah".

"Ryan, Clare, Hannah and Bethany are much loved members of our church," explained Rev. Stanbridge.

"What happened on Tuesday was a tragic and freak accident that has changed a family forever.

"In making this statement, I have spoken to Ryan, who is at his daughter Hannah’s bedside in the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Belfast, and he would like express his thanks for the prayers of everyone, especially those in Ballycastle, and asks that people continue to pray for wee Hannah."

Rev. Stanbridge added: “He has also asked me to express his deep appreciation and thanks to all the emergency services who attended the scene, to the doctors and nurses in the Causeway Hospital and the surgical team in the Royal, where Hannah is now.

“My colleague, Rev Alan Buick of Dunluce Presbyterian, has been in touch to offer his condolences and sympathy to the family.

"Clare was a much loved and esteemed leader and officer of 357 Dunluce Presbyterian Girls Brigade for the past 15 years, and she will be sadly missed by all the girls and leaders.

“As a church family we are mourning Clare and Bethany’s passing, but our resolve in Christ Jesus is to keep Ryan, Hannah and the wider family circle in our prayers and assure them of our love and support in the difficult days and months ahead.

"I am sure that you will understand, that Ryan has asked that he and the family are given space at this time, so they can focus on his wee Hannah. Thank you.”