Lynch: 'God took Gately for a reason'

Shane Lynch has reportedly said that his Boyzone bandmate Stephen Gately died for a reason.

The singer admitted that although he is still coming to terms with the tragic loss, 'life doesn't stand still' for anyone.

Lynch, 33, told The Sun: "I've got faith and respect for God - God doesn't make mistakes. So therefore, I've got to understand that it's all for a reason. If I don't understand why then one day I'll be told - but not right now."

Gately died from a pulmonary oedema while on holiday in Majorca two months ago. "We all miss him terribly, but we've got to crack on," Lynch said, adding: "Life doesn't stand still for nobody."

The Irish musician will be spending the festive season with his wife Sheena, daughter Billie Rae, one, and other family members. "Time is a great healer. You surround yourself by loved ones around Christmas then we can try to find the good out of the bad."