Tributes, honours and celebration as mayor reflects on loss and local achievement

Mid and East Antrim Mayor Cllr Jackson Minford 

Mid and East Antrim Mayor Cllr Jackson Minford led tributes to former first citizen PJ McAvoy following his recent death, before councillors stood in the chamber to observe a one-minute silence.

Speaking at a full meeting of the borough council at The Braid in Ballymena on Monday evening, Cllr Minford said:

“I was very saddened to learn of the passing of the former mayor of Ballymena Borough Council, PJ McAvoy.”

The mayor said that Mr McAvoy, an SDLP representative, had served as a Ballymena councillor for almost 30 years, was deputy mayor on four occasions, and served as mayor in 2012.

Cllr Minford added:

“I knew PJ personally throughout my working career with Roads Service and he was extremely well respected and worked tirelessly for all residents and communities. His loss will be keenly felt.

“I extend my condolences to his loved ones and friends at this sad time. I would also like to offer my sincere condolences to PJ’s family during this difficult time.”

Tribute was also paid following the sudden passing of well-known Ballymena businessman John Wilson, whom the mayor described as “a respected figure in the local motor trade and a familiar face in the community”.

“Mr Wilson helped lead the family-run vehicle dealership business, Wilson’s of Rathkenny, alongside his brother Darren. The business was founded by their father, the late John Wilson Snr, and has long been associated with the area’s automotive trade.”

The mayor continued his announcements by extending congratulations to Larne woman Joanne Liddle on her recent MBE, awarded in recognition of her “commitment and service” to the aerospace sector in Northern Ireland.

Joanne, who is managing director of Carrickfergus-based IPC Mouldings, recently received her award from Her Royal Highness Anne, Princess Royal at Windsor Castle.

Cllr Minford also congratulated Carrickfergus man George Horner, who was conferred with the Freedom of the Borough during a special ceremony held on his 99th birthday at Carrick Town Hall.

“This award formally recognises and honours the incredible service and sacrifice he gave. The Freedom of the Borough is the highest civic honour the council can confer. It is fitting that Sergeant Horner should receive this recognition.

“We are proud to celebrate his legacy and ensure his contribution is remembered for generations to come,” the mayor said.

Cllr Minford also praised the recipients of the council’s recent Mid and East Antrim Sports Awards, which were held at Galgorm Resort.

“It was fantastic to come together to celebrate everything that is great about the wealth of sporting talent in our borough. I hope the achievements of our winners and those who were shortlisted continue to inspire and encourage the next generation.”

The mayor also highlighted “Ballymena racing talent” Brandon McCaughan, reporting that the 22-year-old has secured a full-time seat in one of Europe’s most competitive prototype championships.

He added that Brandon has been “steadily building momentum towards this opportunity” in motorsport.

Commenting on the mayor’s charity ball in aid of his chosen charities, British Heart Foundation and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, Cllr Minford said the event has raised more than £5,000.

“I am truly grateful to everyone who attended, donated and helped to make the evening such a success.”