Robert Gault sadly passes

Mr Gault, who was 78 years old, had suffered from ill health for a number of years.

He leaves behind his wife, Margaret, sons James and Jonathan and daughter Fiona as well as a sister, Elizabeth.

Mr Gault ran one of North Antrim’s best known drapery and soft furnishings store in Church Street, Ballymoney and his custom came from all over Northern Ireland.

A native of the Dunloy area Mr Gault played a leading role in the community in Ballymoney where he had lived for a number of years.

He was a former member of Ballymoney Rotary Club and of the Chamber of Commerce playing a pivotal role in generating business for his fellow traders particularly at Christmas time.

He was also deeply involved in Dunloy Presbyterian Church where his devout Christian beliefs earned him much respect from fellow parishioners.

The Mayor of Ballymoney, Alderman Bill Kennedy, said the town had lost one of its most respected businessmen.

“Robert Gault was a real gentleman who gave Ballymoney a very positive image through his business activities,” the Mayor added.