Clouds provide a warning as campaign manager Stephen Nicholl approaches the former minister’s car and gathers the team for a pep talk. Then it’s off to Anderson Park. On the way, a sign fastened to a public wall declares: “Doagh LOL 370 and DCS [Doagh Cultural Society] says ‘No’ to Irish Sea border.
” At first glance, it looks like the UUP candidate — whose party leader, Doug Beattie, has been criticised by opponents for his stance on the Brexit deal — could be in for a rough ride. Dogs peer from front windows as Mr Swann’s delegation veer off in different directions; councillors Bethany Ferris and Vera McWilliam busy themselves to the left as the North Antrim MLA turns right. There’s no answer at the first few doors but at a corner house, with a tiny Orangeman figurine in the window, there is a welcome.
“I’ve always given the UUP my vote,” says the occupant. He can explain the figurine too: a raffle prize from the junior Orange lodge attended by his grandson. Some people get up from the sofa when they hear the doorbell, before retreating to its comfort on seeing the canvassing politician.
Other residents are keeping their cards close to their chests. “I’m not promising anything,” says one man as he pokes his head around the front door. “It’ll be unionist anyway, but I’m not going to commit.
” Another tells Mr Swann she “normally votes DUP”, but insists she will “have a wee look through” the leaflet dutifully handed to her by the .
