Former Ulster Unionist Allen joins the DUP

Daniel Allen, who has been a councillor for North Down and Ards Council since 2014, quit the UUP back in April amid differences with the party.

On Tuesday he was unveiled as a DUP councillor for the Holywood and Clandeboye area.

DUP Leader Arlene Foster said: “Daniel is an excellent public representative and I am delighted that he has decided to join the Democratic Unionist Party. Daniel already works closely with our Party group on the Council and I know he will make a very valuable contribution and find himself at home in the DUP.

“As I speak to people right across Northern Ireland I am heartened by their support and this is not the last such announcement that I will have the pleasure of making. Announcements relating to further recruits will be made in due course.”

Mr Allen said, “I am delighted to be joining the Democratic Unionist Party.

“Under the leadership of Arlene Foster I believe Unionism will be stronger and will dominate the political landscape in Northern Ireland for many years ahead.

“The DUP has assembled a strong and united group which have been endorsed by the electorate in the recent May elections.

“The next five years will be a testing time and I look forward to help taking on the challenge with my new party.”