A British army veteran and parish reader is the new Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh

DUP councillor Brian Higginson took up the chain of office at Lagan Valley Island on June 5, with a pledge to recognise community and service.

The mayor’s key charity drive will also see the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance become a major focus for the district in the coming year.

Mr Higginson said: “As a parish reader and people’s churchwarden, I have had the privilege of serving others during some of the most important moments in their lives.

“Through those roles, I have witnessed the strength of community, the power of compassion and the importance of being there for others when they need support.

“Service is something that I have valued throughout my life. It is something that has shaped who I am and what I believe.

“From 1987 until 1992, I proudly served in the Ulster Defence Regiment.

“During that time, I witnessed first-hand the courage, dedication and sacrifice shown by ordinary men and women who stepped forward to serve their communities during extraordinarily difficult times.”

The council member elected for the first time this mandate, is the first from Castlereagh South district electoral area to become the first citizen of the council.

Mayor Higginson added: “Throughout my mayoral year, I want to ensure that service in all its forms is recognised, celebrated, and valued from the armed forces to emergency services and volunteers in our community and the unsung heroes.

“I am also delighted to announce that my chosen Mayor’s charity will be Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

“The Air Ambulance provides an extraordinary and often life-saving service to people across Northern Ireland.

“When serious incidents occur and every second matters, their highly skilled crews bring critical care directly to those in need.

“I look forward to the year ahead with energy, enthusiasm, and commitment, and I will strive every day to be a mayor who reflects the values of service, community and dedication that make Lisburn and Castlereagh such a wonderful place to live,” he added.

Downshire East Alliance Alderman Aaron McIntrye, who was first elected in 2014, is the new Deputy Mayor for Lisburn and Castlereagh.

Deputy Mayor Aaron McIntyre said: “I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many people from every part of Lisburn and Castlereagh through the roles I’m proud to have held on council.

“Their experiences demonstrate the strength of our communities and the pride people have in where they live, and I’m looking forward to working even closer with them in the year ahead.

“We have an exciting year ahead, with a range of fantastic events planned across the city, including fringe events for the Fleadh.

“All of which showcasing the very best of our local communities, giving us the chance to celebrate our heritage, bring in visitors, and support our local economy.

“It’s a great honour to be given the opportunity to serve as Deputy Mayor, and I’m excited to see what the year ahead will bring,” he added.