UUP stalwart, Sam Foster, from Fermanagh died earlier today (Tuesday).

The 82-year-old former Environment Minister represented Fermanagh and South Tyrone on the Northern Ireland Assembly from 1998 until 2002 when he was forced to resigned as a result of the advancement of Parkinson's Disease.

In 2002 he received a CBE in recognition of his political and public service.

He was a Special Constable in the Ulster Special Constabulary for 21 year and was an Officer with the rank of Major in the Ulster Defence Regiment.

Mr. Foster was also a member of the Northern Ireland Policing Board from 1999 until it was reconstituted in 2006.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy and three children.

His nephew is married to the current Enterprise Minister and DUP Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Arlene Foster, who released a statement, saying: "Sammy Foster was a very important politician in Fermanagh and South Tyrone and indeed in Northern Ireland, but for my husband, myself and my children he was foremost a very dear uncle.

"It is well known that Sammy and I didn’t always agree on the direction of unionism post the Belfast Agreement, but we did, especially in later years, realise the importance of family."

UUP MLA Tom Elliott paid tribute to his friend and colleague, saying: "I will remember Sam as a very loyal and true friend to the people of Fermanagh, to the Ulster Unionist Party and to me personally."