Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Orange Order Grand Secretary Drew Nelson.
“Drew has fought a valiant battle with cancer for a number of months, a trial he faced with tremendous courage.
“His love for his Province motivated him to get involved in politics earlier in life but it is for his service to the Orange Institution that he will be remembered. Drew’s passion for a tradition which was frequently subject to unjust attack and caricature was evident to all who met him. Orangeism and the parading community generally have lost an intelligent and powerful advocate.
“Drew was someone who loved his country and there will be people across Northern Ireland who will feel a sense of loss at this news as a result. I hope that his family and close friends will know the presence of the father of mercies and God of all comfort at this time of loss. May they derive strength from the knowledge that many will be remembering them in prayer at this time.”