Fire service add to tributes to young rugby player Erin Quinn
ERIN Quinn will be a “huge loss” to Shetland’s fire service, area commander Matt Mason has said.
Quinn joined the Lerwick fire station as an on-call firefighter in September 2024, and also worked at Sumburgh Airport’s fire station.
The keen rugby player – who played for Shetland Valkyries – died last week, with tributes to her being lead by two of her former clubs.
Mason said she had “quickly established an unwavering commitment and dedication to her role”, and had earned “the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community across Shetland.”
“Erin was a friend to many and a valued part of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service family, who served and protected our communities,” he said.
“The impact of her work and life will be felt for a long time to come, and she will be remembered fondly by many.”
Mason said his thoughts remained with her parents John and Louise, and with “her family and loved ones during this very sad and difficult time”.
“I would like to say a personal thanks from myself, and on behalf of Erin’s family, for the many tributes that have been passed,” he added.
“I have been incredibly moved by the care, compassion and support shown by so many across Shetland at this time.”
Shetland Valkyries lead the tributes to its “peerie superstar” Quinn earlier this week.
The “kind, caring and talented” Quinn joined the club in 2022 from Howe Harlequins. The club said it was with “great sadness” that it had to announce her passing.
“She quickly became a valued and treasured member of the Valkyries,” it said.
“She knew the game inside out and could slot into any position on the pitch with ease.
“Off the pitch she was one of the funniest and most genuine lasses, always full of energy and up for nonsense.
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“The club wishes to extend their condolences to Erin’s family, friends, colleagues and past team-mates.”
Her former club Howe Harlequins also said it was “deeply saddened” to learn of her passing.
“Erin was a fantastic rugby player, she was small in size but courageous and determined on the pitch.
“More importantly, off the pitch she was a great person, kind, sincere and with a fantastically dry sense of humour.
“We were happy to see her love of rugby continue to flourish at her new club, Shetland RFC, after her move to Shetland.
“She will be sadly missed by everyone at Howe and our thoughts go out to her family and friends at this desperately sad time.”
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