NSPCC Northern Ireland has paid tribute to Stephen Clements, a long-time ambassador with the charity, who has died suddenly.
Stephen, from Carrickfergus, was a well known media personality who presented a Radio Ulster show. His death has left colleagues shocked and saddened.
Catherine Nuttall, Head of Fundraising for NSPCC Northern Ireland, said Stephen was a much-valued and much-loved ambassador with us.
“We were very lucky to have his generous support for many years and I was very fortunate to call him a friend.
“He was always so passionate about children and young people and supporting the work of the NSPCC and Childline across Northern Ireland. He was generous with his time, often taking several hours out of his busy schedule to support our fundraising and awareness raising activities,” she said.
Catherine said Stephen visited the Childline and NSPCC base in Belfast on several occasions and also took time to visit a primary school to see the Speak Out Stay Safe programme in action.
“He told me on several occasions how proud he was to be an NSPCC ambassador in Northern Ireland and we were incredibly proud to have him involved. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Stephen’s wife, children, family and friends at this incredibly difficult time,” she added.
Children and young people can contact Childline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0800 1111 or by visiting www.childline.org.uk for free and confidential support and advice.
Other tributes have been paid following Stephen’s death.
I’m absolutely stunned, shocked & saddened at the sudden passing of Stephen Clements. Such a top top bloke and always had that big infectious smile on his face . My thought are with his wife, His two young kids and the family circle at this time. May you Rest In Peace Stephen. pic.twitter.com/KIvREs2kxy
— Simon Kitchen (@kitchey16) January 7, 2020
This is a photo tweeted last night by Stephen Clements.
I’m absolutely shocked to hear of the sudden death of this great guy. My heart goes out to Stephens wife & children & family circle.
An absolute entertainer with a heart of gold. RIP pic.twitter.com/p7zthrlbnr— Ian Logan (@ianLogan5) January 7, 2020
? We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Stephen Clements. A proud Northern Ireland fan, Stephen was MC at several of our home games. He will be sadly missed. #GAWA pic.twitter.com/dBtzHkua0h
— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) January 7, 2020
Just heard more heartbreaking news that local radio presenter Stephen Clements has passed away. Deepest condolences to his young family and friends. RIP
— Carl Frampton MBE (@RealCFrampton) January 7, 2020
Life is to be lived with love and laughter, as much as you can. Don’t sweat the small things, and, note to self, don’t get so angry. Very few of those up on the hill are worth half of Stephen Clements. Love to yours .
— Charlie Lawson (@charlie_lawson1) January 7, 2020
We're shocked and saddened by the news that Radio presenter Stephen Clements has died suddenly aged 47.
Just last night he shared a family post on social media and was tweeting about football like any other day.
He helped Linfield during Jamie Mulgrew's testimonial season.
RIP pic.twitter.com/xYelpGZ6Fz
— Rangers FC & Linfield FC (@bluesbrothers86) January 7, 2020
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Stephen Clements
His radio shows on BBC Radio Ulster & Q Radio brought his legion of listeners joy through his music & humour
I would like to extend my condolences to his wife, children, family & colleagues at this very sad time
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) January 7, 2020
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Stephen Clements. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Stephen supported and made such a difference to so many charities throughout NI. pic.twitter.com/GW5kMfxswZ
— Cancer Fund for Children (@CancerFundChild) January 7, 2020
— Mayor MEABC (@Mayor_MEA) January 7, 2020