Tributes paid to former Mayor William King

Mr King, who was also president of the Northern Ireland Ploughing Association, passed away suddenly yesterday (Tuesday).

Speaking last night, Ulster Unionist Party group leader, Councillor Darryl Wilson, said: “My Ulster Unionist colleagues and I were shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of William King today.

"William was a well-known and respected public representative for many years, including his time on Coleraine Borough Council where he served for many years representing Bann DEA. This time included a spell as Mayor of Coleraine.

"William was also one of the inaugural councillors on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. William was a hard working man, a great councillor, an even better man for the ploughing but, above all this, a dedicated family man.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Daphne, his daughters, son and all impacted by this sad, sad news.”

Councillor Wilson thanked the current mayor, Councillor Steven Callaghan, and the group leads from “right across the political spectrum” for paying their respects and offering glowing tributes at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

Coleraine Harbour Commissioners and staff said they were “shocked and saddened” to hear of the passing of their board member Mr King.

“William was a dedicated member of Coleraine Harbour Commissioners for several years and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his wife Daphne and family,” they added.

Castlerock Bowling Club have also extended their sympathies to Mr King’s family.

“The club were saddened to hear of the death of our faithful member, William King.

“Only last night he was playing in one of our club tournaments. Our thoughts are with his wife, Daphne, and his family at this sad time.”

TUV Causeway councillor Allister Kyle said: “I am deeply sorry to learn of the sudden passing of William King.

“I have had dealings with William through my business and discussions with him in his role in the North Derry Farmers Association. He was also a fervent Coleraine FC supporter who I spoke with regularly on match days. William was a character who I always found to be straight and honest and one who enjoyed a laugh and a joke.

“The last time I saw William he congratulated me on my election and wished me all the best. It was with great sadness that my first speech within the council chamber was to pay tribute to him on his passing,” he added.

"In my tribute I eluded to the fact that William was a perfectionist, whether it was looking for Coleraine FC to be doing that wee bit better, no matter what the score or performance was, or whether it was within the ploughing competition fraternity.

“North Antrim TUV and I pass on our condolences to Mrs King, the entire family circle, his friends and the Ulster Unionist Party,” concluded Cllr Kyle.

For all the latest news, breaking stories and features, log onto www.northernirelandworld.com and follow the Coleraine and Ballymoney Times Facebook pages.