Mr. Jim Barr - The man who put the bloom into Ballymena

Few would argue with the assertion that Jim Barr was the man who put the bloom into Ballymena.

As head of Ballymena Borough Council’s Parks Department for around 30 years, he not only ensured that municipal gardens and displays were maintained to the highest level but he also went the extra mile to offer advice and practical assistance to fledgling community groups seeking to improve their local environment..

A true Ballymena man, born and bred in Castle Street, Jim Barr had served his apprenticeship in Nieve’s Garden Nursery which was located near Meetinghouse Lane, just off the town centre. From there he graduated to the Council’s Parks Department where he nurtured an ethic of civic pride - along with some of the finest blooms imaginable.

Jim was toally committed to his work and never failed to cast a critical eye over displays which most untutored onlookers would have been more than satisfied with. While he was always delighted to hear praise of the work carried out by his department, he remained a very modest, unassuming, hard working man who was always looking to ‘go one better’ for Ballymena, a town in which he had immense pride.

Among the many mourners who attended the funeral, at St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland on Friday, was Mr. Ronnie McBride, currently the Deputy Chief Executive of Ballymena Borough Council and a man who was well aware of Jim Barr’s qualities.

“Jim Barr never watched the clock,” said Mr. McBride. “He was very much of the old school and believed in doing every job to the very best of his ability. he enjoyed his job and I can say that he, in turn, was a joy to work with. Ballymena Borough has lost a great servant.”

Changed days in local government brought an increase in the paperwork side of the job and this did not sit well with a hands-on character like Jim Barr and he took his retirement, having left a legacy of excellence which continues to this day.

A dedicated family man, Jim Barr lived for many years on Trostan Avenue with his beloved wife,Margaret who passed away in 2007. The devoted couple had four children - Stephen, Janice, Hilary and Yvonne -and five grandchildren.

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