Tribute to Alderman Beth Adger MBE, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim

Thursday 20 March 2025

Our thoughts are with her husband, Tommy, her family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.

Alderman Adger’s contribution to our Borough was immense and her loss will be deeply felt across every corner of our community. She was a woman of exceptional strength, compassion and unwavering commitment, who dedicated her life to public service. Elected as a Councillor for the Braid area in May 2014, she was re-elected in 2019 and again in 2023. She twice served as Deputy Mayor (2019-2020 and 2022-2023) and, in June 2024, she was designated as Mayor, a position she held with distinction until her passing.

Her political career spanned more than two decades and, throughout that time, she was known for her tireless dedication to her constituents. As a member of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), she strived to improve the lives of everyone in the local community. She was a passionate advocate for local businesses, community groups and charitable causes.

Alderman Adger was not only a dedicated politician but also a champion of her community. Born and bred in Carnalbanagh, she was a proud daughter of the local area and her commitment to it was unwavering. As a foster mother to many children over the years, she was devoted to her family, exemplifying kindness, compassion and dedication. She was a strong advocate for fostering and, together with her husband Tommy, she opened her heart and her home to children needing love and stability, making an indelible mark on their lives.

Her resilience in the face of personal hardship was an inspiration to many. As a teenager, Beth battled illness and reflecting on that experience, she said, “Coming back from Fulham Hospital when I was 17 years of age, after being involved in a chemotherapy trial, I vowed to dedicate my life to helping others.” This spirit of selflessness and hope defined her, as she dedicated her career to supporting those facing their own challenges.

For over 20 years, Alderman Adger worked tirelessly with various organisations such as Barnardo’s and the Asthma Society, passionately supporting causes such as the Air Ambulance NI and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and always putting the needs of others first. She often said she had spent her lifetime representing her family, her neighbours and the wider community. Her passion for helping others was evident in everything she did.

Alderman Adger’s passing leaves a void that will be felt throughout the Borough. She was a leader who led with grace, humility and distinction, always putting others first. She was known for her warmth, approachability and unwavering commitment to the people of Mid and East Antrim. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of public servants who seek to follow in her footsteps.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, alongside the entire community, mourns the loss of Alderman Beth Adger MBE, a true leader who dedicated her life to the betterment of others. Her contribution to our community will never be forgotten and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

As a mark of respect, flags will fly at half-mast across all town halls in the Borough.