Funeral mass for Waterford family killed in arson attack to be held

The funeral mass for Philip and Kim English and their sons Callum, 12, and Jayden, nine, will take place this afternoon in Waterford.

The family was killed in an arson attack on their home in the Birchwood estate on Tuesday.

Two other children, aged six and 14, remain in a critical condition in hospital following the attack.

The coffins were taken to Sacred Heart Church in Waterford on Sunday afternoon where the bodies were laid in repose for family, friends and community members to pay their respects.

Four hearses arrived at the church and after the church bell sounded the coffins were carried inside.

Parish priest Father Gerry Chestnutt will lead the funeral mass at 1pm and following the service, the family will be laid to rest in Kilbarry Cemetery.

President Catherine Connolly will be represented by her aide-de-camp, while the Government will be represented by chief whip Mary Butler.

It is expected that a number of businesses will close in Waterford as a mark of respect to the family.

Two people have appeared in court on charges related to the arson attack.

Cian Stacey, 21, and Jessica Dalton, 31, appeared at a special sitting of Clonmel District Court on Saturday charged with one count of criminal damage and two counts of assault causing serious harm.

Both were remanded in custody to appear before Waterford District Court on Tuesday.