The little bit of peace is knowing they're together

Pals pay tribute to victims as book of condolence opens

- JOHN HAND

A BROTHER and sister who died in a tragic road crash will be laid to rest on Friday as their heartbroken family said: "Their precious short lives will never be forgotten."

Luke and Grace McSweeney died along with Nicole Murphy and Zoey Coffey, aged 18, car accident outside Clonmel, Co Tipperary, on Friday night.

It happened as Luke, 24, brought the three girls to a celebration of their Leaving Cert results they received earlier that day.

Hundreds lined up yesterday to sign a book of condolence in the town as funeral arrangements for three of the four victims emerged.

A joint funeral is to be held for Luke and Grace at St Peter and Paul Church at 11.30am, followed by a burial in St Patrick's cemetery.

Parish Priest Fr John Treacy told how he spoke to their parents on Sunday as they continue to deal with the heartbreak.

He explained: "A very difficult few days ahead.

"I was talking to Luke and Grace's mother and father yesterday, Paul and and remarkably together, meeting and Brigid, and they're remarkably dignified greeting Luke and Grace's friends as they come to the house.

"Everybody is welcome. They're reminiscing and remembering. It's something to behold, to see how composed they are given the awful circumstances."