The Ulster Unionist Party has paid tribute to Eddie Keown, one of the Party’s stalwarts in the South Down area, who has sadly passed away.

Ulster Unionist Party Leader Doug Beattie MC MLA said:

“On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family of Eddie Keown. Eddie has been described as the archetypal Ulster Unionist. He went about his business quietly and efficiently and was a stalwart of the party in South Down in particular, but his influence was felt much further afield in his role as a Party Officer.

“He was a calming influence who sought to bring people together and was highly regarded. He will be greatly missed and my sympathy and that of the Party, goes out to his wife Edith, the family circle and his many friends.”

South Down Ulster Unionist Representative, Councillor Jill Macauley also paid tribute to Mr Keown.

“I am truly saddened to hear of Eddie’s passing after a period of ill health. From the first time I met Eddie, I found him to be the kindest, most dependable and respectful person, who could always see the bigger picture in any situation.

“His attention to detail and true dedication to everything he was involved in, was testament to the genuine and respectful person he was, and the high regard that he was held in within the farming community of South Down, the Loyal Orders, his Church family and the wider community of Mourne.

“Eddie was a true gentleman and a loyal Ulster Unionist who was a past Association Chairman and long standing Treasurer. He will most certainly be missed by all who knew him, not least his family, of whom he was very proud.

“On behalf of the Officers and Members of South Down Ulster Unionist Association, I would like to send our sincerest condolences to Eddie’s devoted wife Edith, his children Linda, William and Ann, grandchildren and his brothers Jim and David.”