THE Alliance Party has selected Julian McGrath to become a new councillor for Antrim and Newtownabbey.
He replaces John Blair who was last week chosen to be the party's newest MLA, taking on the South Antrim seat from the retiring David Ford.
Mr McGrath, who will represent the Glengormley Urban ward, has been a member of Alliance since 2011.
He said he was delighted to carry on the "good work of his friend and colleague" Mr Blair, adding his key aim was to ensure council brought value for money for ratepayers.
Mr Blair's selection last week makes him Stormont's first openly gay assembly member.
The 52-year-old said he was "honoured and delighted" to be appointed, and called for fresh talks to restore devolution.
