Locals rally to honour ‘Billy Bog Roll’ with memorial fundraiser for beloved Antrim legend

Brendan Flanagan, affectionately known to generations of locals as “Billy Bog Roll.”

The people of Antrim are rallying to remember one of their most recognisable and best-loved characters — Brendan Flanagan, affectionately known to generations of locals as “Billy Bog Roll.”

Brendan, who passed away peacefully in hospital on 4 July 2025, aged 79, has been described as “the face of Antrim” — a man whose humour, warmth, and unmistakable presence made him a fixture of daily life in the town for decades.

A familiar sight and friendly face across Antrim

Brendan first became known in the 1980s and 1990s through his regular visits to Antrim town centre and Nutts Corner Market, where he made a living as a street trader.

Pushing his well-worn pram filled with toilet rolls, balloons, flags, and dog toys, he was instantly recognisable, often calling out cheerfully to passers-by:

“Buy your doggy a toy for a pound!”

Locals remember him as someone who could lift spirits even on a grey morning. His humour was gentle but infectious, and his conversations — often peppered with jokes and local gossip — made him part of the social fabric of Antrim.

One local business even named a “Billy Bog Roll Burger” in his honour in 2023, a tongue-in-cheek tribute to his larger-than-life personality and his enduring impact on the town.

Community kindness for a local hero

When Brendan’s circumstances became known a few years ago, residents once again showed the generosity that Antrim is known for.

After discovering he was living in difficult conditions, locals launched an informal campaign to refurbish his bungalow, donating furniture, kitchen appliances, and even their time and skills to make it comfortable.

That same spirit of community care now lives on through a new campaign to ensure Brendan’s resting place reflects the affection he inspired.

Organised by his long-time friend Terry Dempster, the fundraiser seeks to raise £1,500 for a headstone and inscription — something, as Terry put it, “simple but meaningful.” Any funds raised beyond this target will be donated to the Macmillan Cancer Unit at Antrim Area Hospital, in Brendan’s name.

“Billy had no family to make arrangements for him, but he wasn’t alone — he had friends who cared,” Mr Dempster said.

“Those of us who knew him will always remember his unique character, his wit, and the good humour that could brighten anyone’s day. We want to make sure he is not forgotten.”

So far, more than £800 has been raised, with donations continuing to come in.

‘A true gentleman — and the face of the town’

Tributes have poured in across social media from those who remember Brendan fondly.

Many describe him as “a true gentleman,” “a legend,” and “one of Antrim’s finest.”

One supporter wrote:

“He was part of what made Antrim feel like home. You couldn’t walk through the town without seeing Billy and hearing his wee shout — he always made you smile.”

Another said:

“He might not have had family, but he had a community who loved him. Billy Bog Roll was part of all our lives.”

Mr Dempster added:

“Whether you knew him personally or simply believe that everyone deserves to be remembered, your donation — no matter the size — will help ensure Billy is given the dignity and respect he deserves.”

Keeping his memory alive

The GoFundMe campaign — available here — is already attracting attention beyond Antrim, with former residents and traders sharing memories from as far away as England, Scotland, and even Australia.

Brendan’s legacy, friends say, is one of joy and authenticity — a reminder that the people who make a town truly special are often those who ask for the least.

“Even without family, Billy had a circle of people who cared — and that love continues on,” said Mr Dempster.

“Together, we can make sure he is not just buried, but remembered.”