Acclaimed author Stephen Walker to launch David Trimble: Peacemaker at Old Courthouse Theatre in Antrim

Stephen Walker’s latest book David Trimble: Peacemaker, and pictured are Stephen Walker (right) and former BBC colleague Mark Devenport

Acclaimed Ballymena author Stephen Walker is set to launch his highly praised new biography, David Trimble: Peacemaker, at the Old Courthouse Theatre in Antrim on Thursday 30 October at 7.30pm.

The event will see Walker joined on stage by his former BBC colleague Mark Devenport, as the pair discuss the life and political legacy of Northern Ireland’s late First Minister and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Walker’s latest book has been described as “a political page turner” by The Irish Times and “an impeccably sourced and researched book” by The Irish Independent, offering an in-depth and revealing portrait of a man who played a central role in the Northern Ireland peace process.

A definitive account of a complex political figure

David Trimble: Peacemaker is based on over one hundred interviews with Trimble’s family, colleagues, diplomats, journalists, and political rivals, featuring contributions from Sir Tony Blair, Bertie Ahern, Senator George Mitchell, and Gerry Adams.

This is Walker’s fifth book, following the success of his bestselling biography John Hume: The Persuader, published in 2023, which was widely regarded as the definitive account of the SDLP leader.

Ballymena author Stephen Walker

Speaking ahead of the event, Stephen said:

“It is a great thrill to come to Antrim and talk about my new book on David Trimble. This is a part of the world I know very well. I am really looking forward to coming back to the Old Courthouse which is such a fabulous venue and can’t wait to see friends old and new. I came with my John Hume book in 2024 and we had a fabulous evening.”

Insights from a friend and former colleague

Mark Devenport, who worked alongside Walker at the BBC, said he was looking forward to discussing the book and Trimble’s legacy in depth.

“I’m looking forward to quizzing my old friend Stephen Walker about the insights he’s gained into the complex character of David Trimble,” he said.

Stephen will be joined on stage by his former BBC colleague Mark Devenport

“Both Stephen and I would have had extensive dealings with the Ulster Unionist leader in the days before and after he signed the peace deal which earned him his Nobel prize. But Stephen’s text reveals more than we were able to glean in the heat of the journalistic moment, especially the private moments the Trimble family have chosen to share about the final months of the peer’s life.”

Praise from media and political figures

The biography has received widespread critical acclaim, with Paul Clark of UTV describing it as “an excellent read.”

Walker’s balanced and detailed account of Trimble’s political career has been praised for shedding light on both his public achievements and private struggles, offering new perspectives on one of Northern Ireland’s most significant political figures.

Event details

The launch of David Trimble: Peacemaker will take place at:

• Old Courthouse Theatre, Antrim

• Thursday 30 October, 7.30pm

Tickets are available from stephenwalker.uk and theoldcourthousetheatre.com, with concession rates available for students.

About the author

Stephen Walker, originally from Ballymena, was educated at Ballymena Academy and Ballymena Technical College before joining the BBC in 1989.

He worked as a Spotlight journalist and political correspondent, covering key moments in Northern Ireland’s modern history. He is now a full-time author.