Tributes paid to former Mayor of Larne Joan Drummond MBE

Mrs Drummond served on Larne Borough Council from 1989 to 2005, and was awarded an MBE in 2000.

East Antrim UUP MLA Roy Beggs Jnr described Mrs Drummond as a “wise and calming influence” in local politics.

He stated: “It is with great sadness, that I have learned that Joan Drummond MBE has passed away.

“She was a wise and calming influence in local government in Larne for many years.

“Her approach to politics was based on service to the community and trying to help the most vulnerable.

“She lived and worked in the heart of Craigyhill, and all her voluntary work associated with the Linn Community Centre revolved around helping and improving her local neighbourhood.

“I know she was held in very high regard right across the community, and I like many others will miss her common sense advice and cheery manner.

“She and her late husband Sammy were totally devoted to each other, and I send my condolences to their son, daughter and grandchildren, and the wider family circle,” Mr Beggs concluded.

Local UUP Councillors on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council also paid tribute to Mrs Drummond.

Alderman Maureen Morrow, who represents Mrs Drummond’s former district electoral area of the Coast Road, said: “Joan was a delightful lady.

“She served on the Council during the difficult days of the Troubles, and everyone speaks well of her work during her years in local politics.

“She had been unwell recently but always had a smile for you, no matter how ill she was.

“My sympathy goes to the family circle at this sad time.”

Councillor Andy Wilson, who served alongside Joan between November 2004 and May 2005, added: “I remember Joan was an oasis of calm when I went onto Larne Council as a young councillor.

“Amongst a group of fairly volatile male councillors, she like Cllr Rachel Rea, was a voice of common sense and reasonableness.

“She was an excellent representative for all the community, particularly in Craigyhill, and the award of the Mayorship and then an MBE were just rewards for her years of public service.

“Joan and her late husband Sammy were quite a team, inseparable at public events for many years, and she will be greatly missed, particular by her family to whom I send sincere condolences.”

Councillor Mark McKinty commented: “Although I never served on the Council with Joan, she was always an endearing‎ and warm-hearted individual with Larne’s best interests at heart.

“She would always have time to chat to those in her company.

“My prayers are with her family and friends at this time.”