David Trimble: Northern Ireland would be a very different place today were it not for him, says Jo-Anne Dobson

Jo-Anne Dobson (pictured) and the peer were both UUP MLAs for Upper Bann while he was First Minister.

“David was a noble lord and a Nobel Laureate as well as a loving husband and father,” she told the News Letter after the peer’s death. ”As a family we were proud to call David a firm friend.”

She recalled him arriving many times at her home when he was First Minister, with his security staff. “But when the door closed he was David - smiling, friendly, intelligent and always full of chat.”

She described him as “incredibly supportive” throughout her time as an MLA. 

“He had a kind listening ear and was someone who, outside the political arena, I trusted and from whom I received sound, measured advice.

“I remember meetings with him in London when I was over visiting my son Elliott [who lives in the city] and will always remember David’s dry wit and a sense of humour which resulted in a tremendous shoulder-shaking laugh. 

“Putting country first, David showed both leadership and vision in those dark days when we needed it the most. Northern Ireland would be a very different place today were it not for David Trimble. I send my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Daphne, Nicholas, Sarah, Victoria, Richard and the entire family circle.”

Jo-Anne is now NI Ambassador for Kidney Care UK.

She lives on her family farm in Waringstown with her husband John and Mark.