Northern Ireland

DUP's Christopher Stalford still in hospital after falling ill at Stormont

DUP South Belfast MLA Christopher Stalford was taken to hospital with a pain in his gallbladder and stomach. Picture by Pacemaker
DUP South Belfast MLA Christopher Stalford was taken to hospital with a pain in his gallbladder and stomach. Picture by Pacemaker DUP South Belfast MLA Christopher Stalford was taken to hospital with a pain in his gallbladder and stomach. Picture by Pacemaker

DUP MLA Christopher Stalford remained in hospital yesterday after becoming ill at Stormont.

The South Belfast assembly member is understood to be still undergoing some tests.

Mr Stalford, who is principal deputy speaker of the assembly, took ill on Tuesday after chairing a session.

The former Belfast deputy lord mayor said he "nearly collapsed at the rear of the speaker's chair" with a pain in his gallbladder and stomach.

His party colleague, South Antrim MLA Pam Cameron, intervened and insisted he go to hospital, bringing him in her car.

"I'm glad she did, I've been admitted. Hopefully they will rid me of this problem once and for all," Mr Stalford wrote online earlier this week.

The 37-year-old has previously disclosed he was dealing with health issues in recent months.

He received support online as people wished him well in his recovery.

Mr Stalford, who was first elected to Stormont in 2016, was appointed principal deputy speaker when the assembly was restored in January.