Councillor McHugh died suddenly in tragic circumstances at his home in Hillview Park, Castlederg on Friday evening - the day after his 60th birthday.

The tragedy had added poignancy as his family had planned to hold a birthday party for him in the house on the night of his death.

Close friend and fellow Sinn Fein Derg councillor, Ciaran McGuire told the 'Journal' that a "dark cloud loomed over Castlederg" as the community tried to come to terms with the unexpected death of the veteran local councillor.

"People in Castlederg just don't know what do about it, I've never seen anything like it before, they just can't believe it.

"Obviously our first thoughts are with his wife Sylvia, son Ruairi, and his daughters Sara and Seodhna. But Charlie's death has left a hugh void in the whole of Castlederg, people may not realise it today but in time they will look back and realise how much Charlie has done for this community. His legacy will be remembered for a long time to come," he said.

Councillor McGuire said that first and foremost Charlie was a family man, who was "republican" to the core.

"All he ever talked about was his family, he loved them dearly. He would often joke about how his grandchildren would be Derry supporters because they lived in Magherafelt. His family came first, then his politics. He was a good friend to me, I have known him since I was 14 and whenever I was unsure about how to vote in council I would always look to Charlie or the late Ivan Barr and they would give me the nod. Now they are both gone," he said.

Councillor McHugh was one of the longest serving members on Strabane District Council, having been first elected in 1985. His unexpected death, coming just months after the loss of another veteran councillor, Ivan Barr, has hit the local Party faithful hard.

Councillors McHugh and Barr were the first Sinn Fein members to take seats on Strabane Council and they worked closely together. Both had also served as council chairmen and vice-chairmen.

Colr. McHugh had helped carry the coffin of Colr. Barr at his funeral in May.

Councillor McGuire added: "Charlie will get a full dignified funeral something similar to Ivan's."

Mr McHugh's Sinn Fein colleagues will flank his coffin today as a mark of respect for the man who they say was a "true friend of republicanism".