News Story

The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) has selected Kyle Savage as its candidate for next year’s Assembly elections in the constituency represented by former party leader Doug Beattie.

Upper Bann MLA Mr Beattie resigned from the party in May, citing a “toxic atmosphere” under its current leadership, and now sits as an independent unionist.

Party leader Jon Burrows said Mr Savage “will have the full backing of the party” when he runs in the constituency.

Mr Savage is a twice deputy lord mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon.

Mr Burrows said: “He was selected by our members in Upper Bann because they know him, trust him and want him to be their voice at Stormont.

“This is a constituency that punches above its weight, and it deserves a representative who is part of a team working together to make Northern Ireland stronger and more successful.

“Kyle will be that representative, and he will have the full backing of the party behind him.”

Mr Savage said: “Upper Bann needs a bit of common sense.

“Not more slogans someone who is out on the ground, honest about what has not worked, and determined to win this seat for people here.”