50th anniversary tribute to innocent civilians killed by IRA bomb at Brougher mountain

By Q Radio news

A tribute to five civilians killed by an IRA bomb in Co Tyrone will be shown online to mark the 50th anniversary of their deaths.

The men were killed on February the 9th 1971 at Brougher mountain near Trillick as they travelled to repair a BBC transmitter.

A bomb, believed to be intended for the British army, was detonated when their Land Rover ran over a trip wire.

The blast hurled debris 400 yards down the mountain and left a five-foot crater in the road.

Three of the men worked for Kilkeel-based firm McMullen and Sons. 

(From left top - William Thomas, George Beck, Harry Edgar. Bottom - John Eakins and Malcolm Henson)

They were 52 year old John Eakins a married father-of-seven; 26 year old Harry Edgar  who was single; and George Beck who was 43, a married father-of-two.

Two BBC engineers died alongside them - 35 year old William Thomas who was married with two children, and 23 year old David Henson who was known as Malcolm and who was engaged.

Kenny Donaldson of the South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF), which supports Troubles victims, said it is "absolutely essential" the anniversary is acknowledged.

Fifty years ago there was a huge loss of innocent lives at Brougher mountain, yet little is known of those events beyond the immediacy of those impacted," he said.

"We felt it absolutely essential that this milestone anniversary be acknowledged and that the families be recognised for the horrific loss they sustained and for which little attention has ever been given.

Mr Donaldson said that having liaised with McMullen and Sons, the BBC and the men's families, a granite plaque is also to be erected at the site.

However, due to Covid restictions this will take place later this year, with a short service of dedication to be attended by relatives including the Thomas and Henson families, from Carmarthen in Wales, and Lancashire in England.

The families will also be guests at a SEFF service of remembrance and thanksgiving the following day when a tapestry in memory of the victims will be unveiled.

(Brougher mountain)