Tributes paid to RTÉ’s ‘Raised by the Village’ teen who dies suddenly

Richard Canny

Emotional tributes have been paid following the sudden death of Dublin teenager Cian Neville (15), who spent time on a Co Roscommon farm as part of the RTÉ programme ‘Raised by the Village’.

Cian from Ringsend died suddenly on August 23rd and was laid to rest in Glasnevin on Saturday following a Funeral Mass in Saint Patrick's Church, Ringsend.

The teen spent a week on the Payne family’s farm in Ballybeg, Tulsk and his experiences of rural life featured in the programme, which was broadcast last year.

Among the many emotional tributes paid since his untimely death, the Payne family, in a social media message, described their “brilliant week” with Cian two years ago as one “filled with laughter and learning from each other, a week we will never forget”.

“We are deeply saddened to say that today we joined his family and huge circle of friends to say goodbye to Cian, forever 15. It was clear how much he impacted his own community and the joy he brought to so many. We hope that his family find strength in his memories at this heartbreaking time. RIP Cian.”

During his time in Roscommon, Cian also visited a local dog kennel near Castlerea, Dottie's Dog House, where he helped to walk the dogs.

In a social media message, Dorothy Byrne from Dottie's Dog House described him as “a true little gentleman”.

“I really enjoyed my time with him in the making of the series. Absolutely gutted for his mam, dad, and siblings. Cian, it was a total pleasure meeting you. Rest in peace, beautiful boy,” said the message.

Cian is sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, Orla and Ian; adored sisters and brothers Coady, Ava and Joe and Joe’s girlfriend Kelsey; grandparent Debbie & Ged; Brian and Zane; aunts & uncles, extended family and a very wide circle of friends & amazing neighbours.