David Tweed: Former Ireland rugby player killed in crash

Former Ireland rugby international David Tweed has died in a crash in Co Antrim.

Mr Tweed died at the scene on Whitepark Road close to Dunseverick on Thursday.

The former Ulster rugby star was riding a motorbike when he was involved in a collision at around 4.30pm.

In 2016, Mr Tweed had his convictions for child sex abuse quashed by the Court of Appeal in Belfast.

He was then released from custody where he had been serving an eight-year sentence.

The father of four became Ireland’s oldest debutant when he was selected to play against France in the Five Nations in 1995.

That year, he won another three Irish caps including one against Japan at the Rugby World Cup in South Africa.

He also played for Ireland against Wales and Italy.

His staunch unionist views made the outspoken player a divisive and controversial presence for Irish fans.

He was a former member of the Orange Order and entered politics with the Rev Ian Paisley’s Democratic Unionist Party after his lodge LOL 496 was prevented from marching through Dunloy during the mid-1990s.

He later served as a councillor in Ballymena for the Traditional Unionist Voice.

In a statement, TUV leader Jim Allister said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Ireland rugby star and Ballymena councillor, Davy Tweed, in a motorcycle accident yesterday.

“Davy, a larger than life character, was widely known across North Antrim and further afield. His family is deeply rooted and respected in the Ballymoney/Dunloy community.

“This is a devastating blow to his family and wide circle of friends. I wish to express my deepest sympathy to his grieving family at this very difficult time.”