George Savage: Ulster Unionist MLA and Craigavon mayor was a respected ex-UDR man and farmer

George Savage, who has died, was a leading unionist, a former member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, and a former mayor of Craigavon Borough Council. He was 72.

He was born in Donacloney and later became a well-known farmer in the area. He was deeply involved in local politics and was a long-serving unionist member of Craigavon Borough Council, where he twice held the office of mayor. He was also a former member of the UDR.

George Savage also played a role in the wider politics of Northern Ireland and served as a member of the UUP for Upper Bann from 1998-2003 and from 2007-11. Mr Savage was deselected by his constituency association prior to the 2011 Assembly election.

The association's three preferences were the then sitting MLA Samuel Gardiner, Craigavon councillor Jo-Anne Dobson, and Colin McCusker, son of the former Unionist MP Harold McCusker. On being told of his deselection Mr Savage said that he had been working hard for the party in previous years, but that he would have to accept the result. He was widely respected across the political spectrum and this was reflected in the tributes paid to him. UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said: "He was an Ulster Unionist stalwart who loyally and faithfully represented the party in the Upper Bann area for decades.

"He was a tireless worker for his constituents and he was held in very high esteem by political friends and foes alike.

"George was one of the original 28 Ulster Unionist MLAs elected in 1998 with the courage to step in to Parliament Buildings and to try to give meaning to the Belfast Agreement.

"It is a sobering thought that he is the sixth member of that brave team to pass away."

Mr Gardiner, the UUP member for Upper Bann, described Mr Savage as someone who was "dedicated to serving the community, both as a soldier in the UDR and as a politician".

Ms Dobson added: "As an MLA, George was a friend to the farmer, serving as a member of the agriculture committee and as its chairman."

Describing him as a "gentleman", SDLP MLA John Dallat said: "The example he left behind was eventually picked up, and whatever the challenges in the future, the current Assembly is better off for having had him during those very difficult years when leadership and example were crucial."

Mr Savage is survived by his wife Joy and their sons Kyle, George and Nigel, and by the wider family.

Belfast Telegraph