Andy Allen is co-opted as Ulster Unionist MLA for East Belfast

Former Royal Irish Regiment soldier, Andy Allen, has been co-opted to replace Michael Copeland as the Ulster Unionist MLA for East Belfast.

Mr Allen was 19 when he had his right leg blown off and left leg badly injured by a makeshift bomb while on patrol in Afghanistan in 2008.

He described the announcement by UUP leader Mike Nesbitt as a "huge honour".

"I have served my country and want to continue to serve my community," he said.

"I look forward to getting down to work as soon as possible because it is work on the ground that can make a difference.

"There may be doubts about the future of this assembly, but while it is here, I`ll be a dedicated public servant for the people of East Belfast."

Mr Nesbitt said he thought it was a valid criticism of the assembly that it needs more people with "life experience beyond the political bubble".

"Andy ticks that box," he added.

Mr Copeland resigned his seat in the assembly due to ill health.