Ladies enjoy lunch date at United function

Officials and guests of Ballymena United at their corporate dinner. INBT49-274AC

Top table guests included Mayor of Ballymena, Councillor Audrey Wales, along with a number of high-ranking Ballymena Borough Council officers including Chief Executive Anne Donaghy, Karen Hargin, Bernie Candlish and Brigid Black - with the Mayor joking that the grouping had been dubbed ‘Charlie’s Angels’.

The Mayor highlighted the good relationship which exists between the local authority and Ballymena United, stating: “Working together over the years, we have secured funding to develop the Showgrounds into one of the best sporting facilities in Northern Ireland.

“That partnership is one which is the envy of many other football clubs, and indeed Councils, throughout Northern Ireland.

“It is pleasing to see so many local businesses turning out to support Ballymena United - there is a superb buzz around the room,” added the Mayor.

That point was echoed by Andy Johnston, Managing Director of the Northern Ireland Football League, who said: “Without the support of the local community and business community, football clubs, leagues and sport in general just wouldn’t survive.”

Main sponsor of the dinner and match was Alan Francey Coach Hire, while thanks were also extended to the following individuals and organisations who took tables at the function:

McBurney Transport; McIlrath Solicitors; Ballymena Spurs SC; Ballymena United Youth Academy; Blair International Transport; Colin Lorimer and friends; Cloughmills NISC; Fitness First Ballymena; GM Landscapes; Greers of Antrim; Haldane Fisher; Harry Millar and friends; John Armstrong and friends; McCurdy Fuels; McNeill Hardware, Broughshane; Paradise BUSC; Paramount BUSC; RGM Financial Services; Alex Richardson and friends; Seven Towers BUSC; Slemish N Tha Braid Credit Union; Smallcost Carpets; Stardust Amusements; System Controls Ltd; The Extras; The Young Guns; William Hamill & Sons.

* The winner of the First Score competition on Saturday was Michael Watterson. Michael won £250. His guess of 64 mins 13 secs for the opening goal was closest to the actual time of 59 mins 45 secs.