DUP councillor in intensive care

The Times understands councillor Girvan, wife of former South Antrim MLA Paul Girvan, is being treated for acute pancreatitis - an inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of the condition include abdominal pain.

Mrs Girvan, who represents the Antrim Line area of the borough, was taken to hospital by ambulance and admitted on Saturday night.

Her husband, who has remained at her bedside, told the Times she is "extremely ill".

"She wasn't well on Friday and by Saturday night she asked me to call an ambulance. She told me she knew something was not right," he said.

The Ballyclare councillor added: "Naturally, I am very worried but we as a family appreciate the support and prayers of friends and colleagues.

"You realise just how tentative life is when you go through something like this."

At Monday's meeting, Deputy Mayor Paula Bradley asked local councillors to "remember Mandy in your prayers", while the Mayor's Chaplain, Pastor Paul Hamill read from the book of Joshua encouraging members to be strong and courageous before praying for healing for councillor Girvan.

"We ask, God, that you will put your hand upon her and bring healing to her and comfort to the family," he prayed. "We pray that you will give wisdom to the doctors and nurses who are looking after her and our prayer is that we will hear good news of a recovery."

Newtownabbey's Alliance Party grouping released a statement extending its best wishes to Mandy and the family "at this difficult time".

"We wish her an early recovery," said councillor Tom Campbell.

"We hope that her stay in hospital is limited and that she can return to her family and to her work in the council when she is feeling better."