Councillor praises God for new baby

Alderman Tommy Jeffers said his wife Catherine (45) is expecting the child in May.

After emerging from church on Sunday night, he said: “I feel about 25, but that’s beside the point!”

He added: “It’s one of those things you never plan for when you get a wee bit older.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their good wishes. It’s a gift from God to have a baby, which was totally unexpected. It’s great and we’re looking forward to next May.”

It is understood that he already has adult children with his previous wife, who died several years ago.

Alderman Jeffers represents the Castlereagh East ward on Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.

He serves on the Council’s Corporate Services and Environmental Services Committees.

Mr Jeffers has spent over 20 years in local government politics and was twice elected Mayor of Castlereagh.

One of his colleagues on Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council was reported to have said: “We thought he was kidding when he said Catherine was expecting. It’s because Tommy does have an irrepressible facility for fun.

“He’s one of those characters who just shows no sign of slowing down.”