Cycle 4 Christ crash victim an '˜inspirational figure'

David Catherwood was involved in a collision with a Mazda car on the main Belfast to Bangor road shortly before 6.30am.

The 61-year-old father of four died as a result of his injuries while another cyclist, aged in his 30s, suffered minor injuries.

His funeral is to be held at Mountpottinger Methodist Church, east Belfast, at 11am on Monday, July 25.

He will be buried at Roselawn.

George Smyth of Cycle 4 Christ said Mr Catherwood was a “great encourager” to novice cyclists, and a “grafter” when it came to the group’s charity fundraising.

“He was a family man, devoted to his wife and four children. He was always a great encourager.

“If we were out in a beginners’ group he was always the one spurring them on – and stayed at the back of the pack to encourage those who were struggling on the hills, and to take their mind off the fatigue.”

Mr Smyth said his friend had been a self-employed security alarm engineer who was dedicated to the aims of the club.

“We all aim to spearhead our faith along with our cycling, and even the name, Cycle 4 Christ, shows that is who we serve and that is who we cycle for.

“One of the strongest talking points is our jersey which has John 3:16 on it and that speaks automatically of God’s love.

“David was a very good asset when it came to our charity work. Whenever I needed somebody to help with the signage, and the grafting side of an event, he was there to lend a hand with this vehicle, going around the countryside putting up signs and then taking down signs after an event was over. He was well appreciated,” Mr Smyth added.