United distance themselves from Council candidate

In a statement issued by the club to local papers and their official website, a spokesperson said: “Ballymena United is disappointed to discover that its name has been used by its Sales and Marketing Executive, Brian Thompson, on election literature he has distributed in a bid to become an Ulster Unionist Party councillor.

“The Club has long prided itself on being a cross community organisation which welcomes players, staff, officials and supporters from all religious and political backgrounds and it does not wish to be seen to be associated with any individual political party or grouping.

“The Club’s Directors are particularly disappointed that Mr Thompson did not make them aware of his intentions, or seek permission, to use the Club’s name in his election literature. Had he asked for permission it would have been refused. This is no reflection on the Ulster Unionist Party. It is too late now for Mr Thompson to withdraw the literature but the Club wishes to place on record its position with regard to this matter and Club Directors have made their views known to Mr Thompson.”