Mayor pays tribute to lives lost on roads and remembers two much-loved figures in local arts

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Tom Gordon

Sunday 18 October 2026

Mid and East Antrim Mayor Alderman Tom Gordon has led tributes to people who have died in recent weeks, including victims of road tragedies and two respected figures from Northern Ireland’s arts and storytelling communities.

Speaking at a meeting of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council at The Braid in Ballymena on Monday evening, the Mayor expressed his condolences to bereaved families and reflected on the contributions of those who had passed away.

Tributes to victims of road tragedies

Alderman Gordon acknowledged the “tragic loss of life on the roads in recent weeks”, highlighting the devastating impact on families, friends and communities.

“Each life lost is a devastating tragedy felt by people in their families, friends and the wider community,” Ald Gordon said.

“On behalf of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families and friends of those who have been bereaved at this difficult time.”

Remembering Larne drama stalwart Beth Duffin

The Mayor also paid tribute to Mrs Beth Duffin, a well-known and long-standing member of Larne Drama Circle who made a significant contribution to amateur theatre in Northern Ireland.

“I was also saddened to hear of the passing of Mrs Beth Duffin, a well-known and long-standing member of Larne Drama Circle. Beth was a talented actress and acclaimed director.”

Mrs Duffin appeared in theatrical productions between 1955 and 2010, spanning more than five decades.

She played an important role in Larne Drama Circle and the Association of Ulster Drama Festivals, helping to promote and support amateur dramatics across Northern Ireland.

“I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Beth’s family, friends and all those who knew her,” the Mayor continued.

Celebrating the life of storyteller Billy Teare

Alderman Gordon also remembered Mr Billy Teare, a professional storyteller whose performances entertained audiences in schools, theatres, libraries and clubs throughout Northern Ireland, as well as at international festivals.

“I was also saddened to hear of the death of Mr Billy Teare, a professional story-teller, who appeared at schools, theatres, libraries and clubs across Northern Ireland as well as festivals around the world.

“Billy began his career as a stand-up comedian in Belfast in the 1980s while working as a law clerk by day. By the early 1990s, he had become a professional story-teller to great acclaim. He was well-known for his memory tricks and was author with Kathleen O’Sullivan of ‘Antrim Folk Tales’.”

Mr Teare's career took him from stand-up comedy in Belfast to professional storytelling, where he became widely recognised for his performances and remarkable memory skills.

His work included co-authoring Antrim Folk Tales with Kathleen O’Sullivan, helping to preserve and share stories rooted in the county's cultural heritage.

Council observes minute’s silence

Following the tributes, Alderman Gordon invited councillors to stand and observe a minute’s silence in memory of those who had died.

The gesture marked the council's respect for the bereaved families and acknowledged the lasting contributions of Mrs Duffin and Mr Teare to Northern Ireland's cultural life.