Daphne Trimble in election challenge
Daphne Trimble in election challenge

The wife of Ulster Unionist Party leader David Trimble is to try to unseat Paisleyite and former UUP rebel Jeffrey Donaldson at the next Westminster election.

Daphne Trimble is tto seek her party’s nomination to contest the Lagan Valley constituency.

Mr Donaldson defected from the Ulster Unionists in January to Ian Paisley’s DUP after years of feuding with Mr Trimble over party policy.

If chosen as an Ulster Unionist candidate, Mrs Trimble will be running in the constituency where she and her husband live.

Lagan Valley is also the neighbouring constituency to David Trimble’s Westminster seat of Upper Bann.

“I do not think the DUP speaks for the people of Lagan Valley,” she said.

“It is traditionally an Ulster Unionist seat and the people have always been represented by Ulster Unionists.

“Jeffrey’s vote has always been an Ulster Unionist vote. It was Ulster Unionist voters who elected him and I think they deserve to have a representative at Westminster.”

Urgent Appeal

Despite increasing support for Irish freedom and unity, we need your help to overcome British and unionist intransigence. We can end the denial of our rights in relation to Brexit, the Irish language, a border poll and legacy issues, with your support.

Please support IRN now to help us continue reporting and campaigning for our national rights. Even one pound a month can make a big difference for us.

Your contribution can be made with a credit or debit card by clicking below. A continuing monthly donation of £2 or more will give you full access to this site. Thank you. Go raibh míle maith agat.

© 2004 Irish Republican News