Ex-councillor killed in crash

THE man who died following a road crash in Poyntzpass was former Castlereagh councillor John Hillis, 65, from the village.

During a ‘Matter of the Day’ on the death of Constable Philippa Reynolds at Stormont, TUV leader Jim Allister expressed condolences to the family and also raised the death of former councillor John Hillis: “In mourning this loss, it would be remiss of the House if we did not also remember that another family is suffering bereavement at this time because of a road traffic accident.

“I refer to the loss just a few hours previously of the life of John Hillis in an accident that occurred between Tandragee and Poyntzpass. He was known to some of us in the House because of his previous service as a councillor in the community.

“I would like to join, as I am sure would others, in conveying condolences to the Hillis family and to his wife and son and daughters on his sad passing.”

Police have asked for witnesses to come forward following the incident which involved a van and a car and took place at 5.45pm on the Tandragee Road.

A woman in her 30s was also injured and was taken to hospital but her injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

Independent Unionist councillor Paul Berry said the community was “shocked and saddened” by the death on what he said was a busy road.