Former First Minister of Northern Ireland David Trimble has died at the age of 77.
“It is with great sadness that the family of Lord Trimble announce that he passed away peacefully earlier today following a short illness,” a statement read.
In April 1998 Lord Trimble was one of the signatories to the Good Friday Agreement.
He was born in October 1944, and went on to serve as first minister (1998 – 2002). He was leader of the Ulster Unionist Party from 1995–2005, and an MP from 1990 –2005. In 1998 Lord Trimble and the late John Hume, leader of the SDLP, were awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.
Tributes have been paid.
Deeply grieved to learn of the passing of Lord David Trimble- a political colossus. Thoughts and prayers are with Lady Trimble and the entire Trimble family at this sad and difficult time. @uuponline @BBCNewsNI @UTVNews @skydavidblevins
— Danny Kennedy (@DKennedy_UUP) July 25, 2022
Incredibly sad news that David Trimble has died. A brilliant statesman and dedicated public servant, his legacy as an architect of the Good Friday Agreement will live on forever. The people of the UK owe him an immense debt of gratitude for all he achieved for our Union.
— Brandon Lewis (@BrandonLewis) July 25, 2022
David Trimble was one of the most consequential political leaders of the last century whose life left an indelible mark on our shared island’s story.
He doesn’t often get enough credit but without his political bravery and the risks he took, there would have been no agreement.
— Colum Eastwood 🇺🇦 (@columeastwood) July 25, 2022