‘We’re indebted to Peter for his skill and leadership’

In a statement the party locally said: “For our local DUP team it was an upbeat and positive experience with mixed emotions as our party leader Peter Robinson made his final conference speech to the largest crowd ever seen at this event.

“We are indebted to Peter for his political skill and foresight who lead us as a party and country to where we are today.

“We look forward to the challenges ahead. The new leadership will have a very good foundation to work on after the work carried out by one of the best political masterminds this country has ever seen. We wish Peter all the best in his well earned retirement.”