Norman McBurney OBE honoured as Ballymena Showgrounds stand officially renamed

Norman McBurney OBE at the renamed home stand in the main arena at Ballymena Showgrounds, in his honour.

The home stand at Ballymena Showgrounds has been officially renamed the Norman McBurney OBE Stand, marking a significant civic tribute to one of Mid and East Antrim’s most influential business and sporting figures.

The formal naming ceremony took place on Thursday, 23 January 2026, celebrating the lifetime contribution of the Co Antrim businessman whose impact has spanned industry, football and community life for more than six decades.

The decision to rename the stand was agreed by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, recognising Mr McBurney’s enduring commitment to the local economy, his long association with Ballymena United Football Club, and his wider service to the Borough.

Civic tribute to local leadership

Mr Norman McBurney OBE with Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Councillor Jackson Minford and Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, who said the renaming of the home stand reflected Mr McBurney’s profound influence on both Ballymena and the wider Borough.

“Norman’s personal passion to keep it local, employ local, invest local and support both local businesses and community has been so important over the years,” the Mayor said.

“We must never forget how his community ethos, combined with his passion for football, led to his involvement and sponsorship of Ballymena United for over three decades.

“Our decision to rename the home stand within The Showgrounds’ main arena in his honour is our way of bearing testament to Norman’s dual passions – football and his hometown.

“It is, therefore, with great pride that the Borough wishes to bestow on him this gift and legacy.”

Council motion recognised lifetime service

(L-R) Cllr Matthew Armstrong, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Councillor Jackson Minford, Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club, Mr Norman McBurney OBE and Cllr Lawrie Philpott.

The naming followed a Notice of Motion brought forward by Councillor Matthew Armstrong and Councillor Lawrie Philpott, which acknowledged Mr McBurney’s exceptional contribution across multiple sectors.

Their joint proposal stated:

“That Council – to recognise a lifetime of service to industry, sport and the wider community bestows The Freedom of the Borough upon Mr Norman McBurney OBE and renames the home stand within The Showgrounds main arena in his honour.”

Mr McBurney was awarded the Freedom of the Borough last year, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of McBurney Transport.

‘A great honour’

Speaking at the event, Mr McBurney said he was deeply moved by the recognition.

“It’s a great honour to have the home stand at Ballymena Showgrounds named after me,” he said.

“I was also very moved to have received Freedom of the Borough last year, particularly as it marked the 60-year anniversary of McBurney Transport.

“Words cannot do full justice to how much both of these gestures mean to me and I would like to thank Council for organising this very special event.”

From one truck to industry leader

Friends and family of Mr Norman McBurney at the official naming event for the Norman McBurney OBE Stand at Ballymena Showgrounds.

Mr McBurney founded McBurney Transport in 1965, growing the company from a single vehicle into one of Ireland’s largest logistics firms. He remained actively involved in the business until his retirement in 2023.

Alongside his business achievements, he has been a long-time supporter of Ballymena United FC, sponsoring the club for 35 years and serving as Chairman and later President.

Football club pays tribute

Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club, said the decision to rename the stand was a fitting tribute to Mr McBurney’s unwavering support.

“Norman McBurney’s contribution to Ballymena United has been extraordinary,” he said.

Friends, family guests and Elected Members at the official naming event for the Norman McBurney OBE Stand at Ballymena Showgrounds.

“His support over decades - both as a sponsor and in leadership roles - helped strengthen the club on and off the pitch and his commitment to the town has always been clear.

“We are proud to see the home stand at The Showgrounds carry his name, creating a lasting reminder of the legacy he has built for Ballymena.”

A lasting legacy

A devoted family man, Norman McBurney and his wife Lynn have five children and 12 grandchildren.

The naming of the stand ensures his legacy will remain firmly embedded at the heart of Ballymena’s sporting and civic life for generations to come.