'˜We will deliver for the people of South Antrim'

Also joining Adrian Cochrane-Watson, Cllr Paul Michael and Steve Aiken OBE were Lord Empey of Shandon, councillors, party workers and activists.

Mr Nesbitt said: “As a party, momentum is on our side. We are the only main local party to demonstrate electoral growth this cycle. Following our massive gains in the 2014 elections to Antrim and Newtownabbey Council and Danny Kinahan’s success in the Westminster poll last May, we are offering the people of the constituency a slate of three impressive candidates for the next Assembly election.”

Mr Cochrane-Watson said: “I feel privileged to have followed Danny Kinahan into the Assembly, following his record of delivery for South Antrim and hitting the ground running. I pledge that I will continue that momentum, delivering for the people of South Antrim.”

Cllr Michael said: “Our party’s message is positive, constructive and puts the UUP at the forefront of change for the people of South Antrim. In my time on council I have worked hard to grow the South Antrim economy, to work for community cohesion and to listen to the needs of the people of South Antrim. In the Assembly I will continue to do so and will work hard with Adrian and Steve to provide the representation the people of South Antrim so rightly deserve.”

Mr Aiken added: “Our party stands for delivering on economic growth and wellbeing; eliminating criminality and respecting all sections of our community. I have worked hard throughout my life to defend our quality of life and to promote Northern Ireland to the world for investment.”