Kate Evans has resigned from the Ulster Unionist Party after more than ten years of membership.

Evans, elected to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in the Craigavon district electoral area in 2023, stated she will complete her term as an independent councillor.

She cited the strain of internal party politics on her mental wellbeing, noting the period followed the death of her mother.

Evans said she will continue working in the Upper Bann constituency office of MLA Doug Beattie, a role she has held for over a decade.

Beattie said he respected her decision and acknowledged her service and loyalty to the party.

Evans was first elected to the council in 2023 after securing 1,305 first-preference votes.