Alliance pays tribute to former local councillor David Reid, 35, after brave cancer battle

Passed away: Former Alliance Councillor David Reid

Alliance Party representatives have paid heartfelt tributes to former Mid and East Antrim Councillor David Reid, who has passed away aged 35 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Mr Reid, who served as an Alliance Councillor representing the Braid District Electoral Area from 2020 to 2023, was widely respected for his commitment to inclusivity, welfare advocacy, and his courage in the face of serious health challenges.

Alliance Party Leader Naomi Long MLA led the tributes, describing Mr Reid as a person whose warmth and positivity shone through despite adversity.

“My thoughts are with David’s family and friends following his untimely passing,” said Mrs Long.

“It is incredibly sad when someone so young dies, particularly when they were such a genuine and kind person as David. He faced numerous health challenges, from his battle with Crohn’s Disease, on which he was a fearless advocate, to the brave fight he faced with cancer over a number of years.

“Through it all, what stood out was his positivity and his smile. That spirit of kindness and positivity will be my lasting memory of him.”

During his time on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Mr Reid was known for his compassionate and principled approach to local representation.

Councillor Lauren Gray, Alliance Group Leader on the Council, paid tribute to her former colleague’s unwavering dedication to constituents across the Braid area.

“As a Councillor, he offered constituents across Braid and the wider Mid and East Antrim area a voice for all.

“He stood up for everyone and provided inclusive representation without fear or favour, especially on welfare issues, and I knew he was devastated he couldn’t continue in his Councillor role due to health reasons.”

Sian Mulholland MLA, Alliance representative for North Antrim, echoed those sentiments, emphasising Mr Reid’s personal decency and integrity.

“David was at heart a truly decent and caring person, which came across at all times. All of us in Alliance are devastated by his loss, and I know that will be the same for anyone he met in his life.”

Mr Reid was also a strong advocate for people living with Crohn’s Disease, drawing from his personal experience to raise awareness and promote support for others dealing with chronic illness.

Legacy of compassion and courage

David Reid’s legacy, both in political service and in personal resilience, is being remembered by colleagues and constituents alike as one marked by kindness, inclusiveness, and determination.

The Alliance Party has extended its condolences to Mr Reid’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.