Silent tribute to Whitehead volunteer who made 'exceptional' contribution as community stalwarts highlighted at council meeting
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council observed a minute’s silence as a mark of respect following the recent death of Whitehead community volunteer Paul Cole.
The tribute was led by mayor Councillor Jackson Minford during a council meeting in Ballymena.
Speaking at the meeting, the mayor said: “I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Cole, a dedicated community volunteer, musician, teacher, historian and committee member of Whitehead Community Association. Paul’s contribution to community life was exceptional.
“He leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude. I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Paul’s wife Cathy, his daughter Sarah and all of his family at this difficult time.”
During his announcements, the mayor went on to extend congratulations to Larne firefighter, Watch Commander Tommy Torbitt who has been honoured for what he described as “the extraordinary 50 years of service to his community”.
The mayor added: “I was delighted to attend a special event celebrating Tommy’s remarkable achievements and lifelong dedication. His commitment, courage and loyal standing is an inspiration to us all.
“Tommy embodies the values of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and received the King’s Fire Service Medal in the 2023 New Year Honours List. In 1998, he received a personal Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation after performing a rescue outside a high-rise building.
“I also had the privilege of hosting Good Morning Ballymena, last week, as they were awarded the King’s Award for voluntary service. A truly memorable occasion recognising an extraordinary organisation that plays such an important role at the heart of our community."
The first citizen also congratulated a family-run business in Broughshane which is marking a milestone, he said, that “speaks to resilience, community and quiet determination”.
Cllr Minford continued: “Broughshane shopkeeper James McNeill, who now is 88, has celebrated an extraordinary 70 years in business, a rare achievement in modern retail and testament of a lifetime of service at the heart of village life.
“In an era when many independent retailers feel unsupported and stretched, James McNeill’s story stands as a reminder that community trust, hard work, and adaptability can still carry a business across generations.
“Finally, on a more solemn note, I would like to acknowledge the closure of Wyse Byse a familiar presence on Church Street and before that, Wellington Street, which has ceased trading, bringing to an end 53 years of independent retailing that has left a lasting mark on Ballymena and beyond.
“The announcement follows a decision by Wyse Byse co-founder and managing director Richard McLaughlin to retire, a milestone, which he described, with pride and sadness.
“In addition, McKillen’s, a much-loved family department store, that has stood in the heart of Ballymena town centre for a century has announced it would close after 100 years of trading bringing another era to an end at Church Street.
“Established by the McKillen family in 1926, the business has served generations and customers from across the Ballymena and far beyond. Announcing the closure, the McKillen family said ‘the decision had been taken with deep regret following sustained pressures on the high street despite efforts to reduce running costs’.”
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter