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Rangers have appointed a DUP councillor and senior member of the Orange Order as their new head of communications.

The shock appointment of Belfast-based David Graham as replacement for current PR chief Jim Traynor is likely to raise eyebrows.

Graham, a keen weightlifter, is a worshipful master in the Orange Order, according to his list of members’ interests on the Belfast City website.

He is also listed as a member of the Royal Black Preceptory – a secretive Protestant fraternal society.

He is one of the most senior members of George Telford Memorial Orange Lodge who drew fierce criticism in October during their centenary dinner at Belfast City Hall.

Belfast City leaders later banned the organisation after guests from the Govan Protestant Boys paraded and chanted through the corridors and reception hall of the building.

It sparked anger when footage appeared on social media, particularly from nationalist councillors, who demanded to know why marching had been allowed through a shared space.

Graham is a former special advisor to the DUP and was elected councillor to the Balmoral ward, which includes Windsor Park, last May.

It’s believed he has stood unsuccessfully for a place on the board of the Rangers’ fan group Club 1872 in the past and he has little formal experience of employment in the mainstream media.

(Image: Internet Unknown)

His appointment could cause concern among the LGBT+ community at Ibrox, who played a pivotal role at the launch of the club’s ‘Everyone, Anyone’ campaign last July.

The DUP remains hostile to same sex marriage which was only made legal in Northern Ireland in October. They have also opposed the end to the region’s near blanket-ban on abortion.

One source said: “Rangers considers itself a modern, inclusive club but this appointment sends out all the wrong messages in so many ways.

“It’s also staggering they would appoint someone with next to no knowledge of the Scottish media and political landscape. It’s a bizarre move.”

Former Record Sports editor Traynor informed the Ibrox board last year he was planning to stand down after almost eight years when his contract expires at the end of May.

Speaking about his appointment, Graham said: "I am delighted to be joining Rangers.

"As a lifelong Rangers supporter, it is an honour to work for the world's most successful football club. When the opportunity arose, I was very pleased to fulfil this role and am looking forward to getting started.

"I am excited by the board's vision for Rangers as we work towards our 150th anniversary and beyond."

Rangers managing director Stewart Robertson said: "David shares our vision, passion and enthusiasm for the club.

"We are delighted David has chosen to join us and strengthen our team. He is a welcome addition and I look forward to working with him."