Billy and Terry set for TV stardom

Billy and Terry set for TV stardom

26 April 2017

TWO local politicians from opposite sides of the political divide who have raised thousands of pounds for charities and worthy causes are to feature in a new BBC programme that will be screened nationwide.

The DUP’s Billy Walker and the SDLP’s Terry Andrews may have differing political views, but when it comes to helping the local community they are united as one.

Over the past number of years they have raised over £10,000 via a series of fundraising ventures including a boxing match, eating challenge, sponsored cycle, golf competition and a rowing challenge on Strangford Lough and are they currently making plans for a baking challenge.

The Rowallane politicians, who have forged a close bond over the past 20 years, are to feature in the BBC’s Friendships series which is being fronted by Northern Ireland’s very own Christine Blakely and Adrian Childs.

The presenting duo previously worked together on the One Show and they will be at Bright Golf Club later this afternoon to interview Billy and Terry who will be explaining their unique friendship, despite their political differences.

Ahead of today’s scheduled filming, the Rowallane councillors say they are pleased their efforts to help others is being recognised, admitting that while they take their fundraising work very seriously and always try and beat each other, the real winners are the charities and groups they support.

“The call from a BBC producer to take part in this new series came out of the blue,” explained Billy. “They are clearly aware of what Terry and I have been doing over recent years and it is nice that our efforts have been recognised.

“When Terry and I decided to help local organisations, our firm intention was to do what we could and we are very indebted to our family, friends, fellow councillors, the public and many local businesses for their support which never ceases to amaze us.”

Councillor Walker said while there is a perception by those who do not live in Northern Ireland that politicians here don’t get on, he and and his Rowallane friend have proved this is not the case.

“While we have our political differences and indeed vote differently on issues inside the debating chamber, we always remain firm friends and intend to continue with our fundraising work,” he explained.

“We are really good friends and the fact we are members of two distinctly different political parties is not an issue as far as we are concerned. Indeed, I am pro-Brexit while Terry is firmly in the remain camp, but our differing views do not affect the close bond we share.”

Councillor Andrews said the money the duo have raised over the past few years has made a major difference for some local charities who were struggling financially.

“While Billy and I get great fun out of our fundraising exploits, the real winners are the groups we support. We did not get involved to help others for self praise and anyone who knows us will appreciate that,” he continued.

“There is something very rewarding about being able to organise events which raise money for those in need. Billy and I have proved that you can be on opposite sides of the political fence, but retain a close friendship.”

Councillor Andrews said at a time when many groups are struggling financially, a number of them are starting to contact to the Rowallane politicians to see if they can organise fundraising events to help.

He added: “A donation of several hundred pounds can make a world of difference to some groups struggling to remain afloat and Billy and I get great satisfaction from being able to help. It will be interesting to hear what BBC viewers make of two boys from very different political parties working in harmony for the good of everyone in the community.”

The BBC Friendships series is expected to be screened towards the end of this year.