Hundreds of mourners gathered in the rain-swept Co Tyrone town to say their final farewell to the veteran republican on Tuesday.

Councillor McHugh, a father-of-three, died tragically at his home last Friday, the day after his 60th birthday.

He had been a member of Strabane District Council for the past 23 years.

A lone piper led the funeral cortege from his home in Hillview Park to St Patrick's Church.

The coffin was flanked by West Tyrone Sinn Fein members and party colleagues on the council, including the chairman, Councillor Jarlath McNulty.

Among the mourners were Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams, West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty and the Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, who is also mourning the loss of his mother Peggy, who passed away on Monday and was remembered in prayers during the Mass.

The congregation included representatives from Strabane and Omagh District Councils, the legal profession and media.

Five priests from across the Derry Diocese concelebrated the Requiem Mass, including Fermanagh-based human rights activist Fr Joe McVeigh.

Castlederg PP, Fr Patrick Doherty, said: "When faced with sudden and tragic death we are plunged into darkness, shock and even confusion. We look for light and some answers and we look for hope."

Fr Doherty said: "Above all you his family remember him as a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, as a devoted son and brother.

"We remember too his contribution to the community and our country; his love of his native place and his lifelong love for his country. In that he found a task to which he devoted himself in the service of people and for many years as a public representative and councillor."

Fr Doherty continued: "Service is not easy, it makes demands on time and energy; it takes time and dedication but he did it with great care and consideration for his community."

Charlie had carried out numerous acts of kindness. Many people of different faiths and cultures who came to him were welcomed and all helped equally; that support was always generously and ably and willingly given, the priest said.

Turning to what he described as Charlie's "love of Irish culture and games," Fr Doherty said this had led the late councillor to be part of the local GAA club in an administrative role as well as helping youngsters to develop their talents over the years.

"It is always difficult to part but the good memories will sustain us and will sustain you (his family) in the weeks and months ahead."

Fr Doherty extended sympathy to Charlie's wife Sylvia, son Ruairi and daughters Sara and Seodhna, his mother Minnie and his brothers and sisters Hilary, Veronica, Maoliosa, John and Mary.

"We offer our support by our presence here today and we pray God will give you strength. Charlie is now at rest in the company of his late father Jim, may they together enjoy the peace of their eternal home," he added.