One of Jim Aiken's proudest achievements was transforming the grounds at Stormont into a concert venue. Sir Elton John opened a series of concerts there in 1998.

Mr Aiken persuaded Luciano Pavarotti to play at a rain-soaked Stormont in 1999. It had been 36 years since the tenor had performed in Belfast.

In 2000, an audience of nearly 15,000 watched Michael Flatley perform on one of the widest stages ever built. Flatley said the promoter had become "like a father" to him.

In 1976 Mr Aiken travelled to the US and persuaded country star Charley Pride to play in Belfast. His concert was the first of many organised by Mr Aitken in the late 1970s.

Sir Cliff Richard was among the stars Mr Aiken persuaded to perform in Belfast during the Troubles. The singer said he trusted and respected the promoter.