Alan KEYS M.B.E.

So sad to hear of the passing of Alan a true friend and lover of nature his environmental work was well know and indeed he was awarded the MBE in recognition of the work he did on his beloved Ballinderry River and its catchment and none more so than the work to preserve the pearl mussel and native cray fish for future generations to enjoy.
Alan was that rare individual that was able to think outside the box and come up with solutions to enhance the environment he loved.
Condolences To Libby his children and grand children at this very sad time.
Alan and Ina McKeown. Alan and Ina McKeown, Cookstown Monday 30 June 2025

"I love the Ballinderry, where bottom mountain rill.
I love it where its waters are deep and calm and still.
Or tumbling down the valley, in a rush of foam and spray.
But I love it best, where comes to rest, in the bosom of Lough Neagh."
Alan, you will be greatly missed by so many, but your memory and legacy will live on. Deepest sympathies to Libby, Clair, Helen, David, partners and grandchildren, from Trustees and Staff at Ballinderry Rivers Trust. Mark Horton Monday 30 June 2025

Alan was an absolute Gentleman and taught me a lot about trout hatcheries and water quality before I embarked on my career in Fisheries and Water Quality. His passing is a loss to us all in the angling community and all folks who have an interest in NI's rivers and loughs and the fish (particularly dollaghan and salmon) that swim in them, plus of course all other aquatic life. There probably wouldn't be very many freshwater pearl mussels left if it wasn't for Alan. I will always cherish the day I spent with him on Lough Carra over 30 years ago. The fishing wasn't great but the craic was. James Watts, Deputy Chief Fisheries Officer. Monday 30 June 2025