Northern Ireland election 2023: Alliance Party's Joy Ferguson's delight at topping the poll in Banbridge on first time out

The next closest individual counts were UUP councillor Glenn Barr with 1903, Sinn Fein's Chris McCartan with 1750 and the DUP's Paul Greenfield with 1747.

Joy told the News Letter she was "really delighted" with the result.

"And I am delighted today that the people of Banbridge have spoken very resolutely to say that they want change and a progressive future for Northern Ireland," she said.

"I think it gives them hope because people are very frustrated with the current situation in politics in Northern Ireland who don't see a future for them, their children, or their grandchildren

and I think a vote for Alliance gives them that hope that there can be a better future for Northern Ireland."

It is the first time she has ever stood in an election - and she worked hard for her victory.

"Yes I am a new face, it is the first time, and we have worked a really good campaign and knocked on over 20,000 doors across the ABC council area.

"We have had a good response on those doors, we sensed a really good feeling, and a process of change and we saw that in the ballot box today.

"People need hope, they need a better future and I think that is why we got the result we did today."

For Joy, she was energised by the new experience of canvassed voters on their doorsteps.

"I really enjoyed the process. It is really hard work and really rewarding work. I really loved meeting people on the doors and giving them the time to talk to us.

"And I think people really welcomed that and I really enjoyed that aspect. The whole campaign was a pleasure to be involved in."

Her ambitions for the immediate future are to provide "some true political leadership” – to be able to unite society rather than to divide it".

Her key local objectives are improved safety on the A1 dual carriageway, better green spaces for families and supporting local business.