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An official civic event has taken place to formally name the Norman McBurney OBE Stand at Ballymena Showgrounds, recognising the lifelong contribution of one of the Borough’s most influential business and sporting figures.

The naming ceremony was held on Thursday, 23 January 2026, following a decision by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to rename the home stand in the main arena at the Showgrounds.

Civic Tribute to a Ballymena Business Leader

The renaming honours Norman McBurney, founder of McBurney Transport, in recognition of his lifetime of service to industry, sport and the wider community.

Mr McBurney established McBurney Transport in 1965, growing the company from a single vehicle into one of Ireland’s largest logistics firms. He remained actively involved in the business until his retirement in 2023.

Mayor Highlights ‘Keep It Local’ Ethos

Among those attending the event was Jackson Minford, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, who said the renaming reflected Mr McBurney’s lasting impact on both the local economy and community life.

He said Mr McBurney’s commitment to employing locally, investing locally and supporting community initiatives had been a defining feature of his career.

The Mayor also highlighted Mr McBurney’s longstanding relationship with Ballymena United FC, describing the stand’s new name as a testament to his dual passion for football and his hometown.

Council Motion Behind the Decision

The decision followed a Notice of Motion brought forward by Matthew Armstrong and Lawrie Philpott.

Their joint proposal called for the council to recognise Mr McBurney’s lifetime service by both renaming the home stand at Ballymena Showgrounds and bestowing The Freedom of the Borough, which he received last year.

‘A Great Honour,’ Says Mr McBurney

Speaking at the event, Mr McBurney said he was deeply moved by the tribute.

He described the naming of the home stand as a great honour and said receiving the Freedom of the Borough during the 60th anniversary year of McBurney Transport made the recognition even more meaningful.

He thanked the council for organising what he described as a very special occasion.

Ballymena United Pays Tribute

Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club, said the decision reflected Mr McBurney’s extraordinary contribution to the club.

He noted that Mr McBurney sponsored Ballymena United for 35 years and served both as Chairman and later President, helping to strengthen the club both on and off the pitch.

He added that the renamed stand would serve as a lasting reminder of Mr McBurney’s legacy in Ballymena.

Family and Community Legacy

A devoted family man, Mr McBurney and his wife Lynn have five children and 12 grandchildren. His influence across business, sport and community life has left a lasting mark on Ballymena and the wider Mid and East Antrim area.