Paisley, who is 83 years of age, has been an MP since 1970. It is thought that his son Ian Paisley Jr will face TUV leader Jim Allister in the constituency, which promises to be a mud slinging match! 

I wonder what he really thinks about the last 40 years? I wonder how he will be remembered?

In the reaction to this news, Martin McGuinnes of Sinn Fein has called Paisley a ‘personal friend,’ which says a huge amount about both men.

The cynics will say he changed his views during these last few years in order to leave a positive legacy behind. I don’t believe that for a second, as there is no way he can go back and undo the 30 years of politics that preceded his apparent change of heart.

His entire 40 years will be remembered, both positively and negatively by many but wow, he certainly left a mark on this country!