Contributions to civic life in Larne recognised

With Larne Borough Council celebrating its 75th anniversary - and in the process of winding up - the local authority was keen to acknowledge the efforts of those people it had never recognised before.

From helping school children safely across the road, to being a major employer in the borough, tributes were paid to people from all walks of life at the black-tie event, held in the glamorous surroundings of Ballygally Castle Hotel on Friday evening.

Speaking to the Times at the celebratory evening, Larne Mayor Martin Wilson said: “To mark the fact that Larne Borough Council has reached this milestone of 75 years, we are recognising the achievements of people from all fields of civic life in Larne, including health, education, business, arts, community, heritage, and former councillors.

“The Alderman’s Committee met to discuss who would be suitable for this and obviously there was a vast amount of candidates, so it was decided to narrow the number down to 75, and inevitably we have probably missed some deserving people.

“But the purpose of this evening is to celebrate the contributions of those people who have embraced civic pride and made a positive impact on life in the borough.”

Each of those in attendance had their moment in the spotlight, as the council briefly set out how each person/organisation has played an important part in shaping life in the borough.

All nominees also were also presented with a print of a stunning painting by a local artist, depicting the Antrim Coast Road and Black Arch with a ferry in the backdrop.

Chief executive Geraldine McGahey concluded the evening by thanking everyone for their contributions and wishing them well as Larne Council prepares to enter a new chapter in its history on April 1, when it will pass the torch to the new council.

Pictures: Pages 22-23