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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Robert Hynes

Rugby community pays tribute to 'beautiful young girl' killed in Donegal petrol station explosion

Tributes have been pouring in from the rugby community following the death of Leona Harper in the explosion at a petrol station in Co Donegal.

The talented rugby player was among the ten people tragically killed in the blast at the Applegreen Service Station in Creeslough on Friday.

Teenager Leona was a beloved sister, who played for Letterkenny Rugby Club's under 14 team.

READ MORE: Tributes pour in as first victims of Donegal petrol station explosion named

Her death was announced by her brother, Anthony, and the local rugby club in Letterkenny on Saturday evening.

They wrote on Facebook: "We are heartbroken to say our worst fears have been confirmed. Leona Harper tragically lost her life yesterday in Creeslough.

"Leona was a talented rugby player and an important part of our U14 girls team. To Leona's parents, Hugh and Donna, her brothers Anthony and Jamie, and all of her team mates, we offer you our deepest condolences and support.

"There are no words that feel strong enough at a moment of deep sorrow such as this.

"Rest in peace, Leona."

A number of rugby clubs from across the island of Ireland also posted message of condolences on social media.

Strabane Rugby Club said: "We would like to express our condolences to Letterkenny RFC and Leona Harper's family and friends."

Portadown Rugby Football Club commented: "Deepest condolences to Leona’s family and friends from all at PRFC."

Sligo Rugby Club added: "Words seem so meaningless at a time like this, but we would like to offer our sincere condolences to the Harper family at this tragic time. Our sincere sympathies to Leona’s friends & extended family in Letterkenny Rugby Club."

Ratoath RFC posted: "Thoughts and prayers with family and friends, condolences from all in RRFC RIP Leona."

A number of people involved with other rugby clubs also commented on the post.

One such comment read: "It's awful to hear this has happened. Limavady U14 team last year had an amazing time playing with those amazing bunch of girls and Leona was such a beautiful young girl that loved rugby. Sending all of our love and condolences to all of the family and our Letterkenny friends."

Another person posted: "Thoughts and prayers are with the Harper family and Letterkenny Rugby Club at this really difficult time. We are proud to say we had the pleasure of playing alongside Leona in our U14 Inishowen/Letterkenny girls team. You are in our prayers from all at Inishowen Rugby Club."

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