[2] Sandford was involved with the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) during The Troubles, and later shared a cell with Gusty Spence in 1974.
[3] Following his release, Sandford got involved in politics, eventually joining the Progressive Unionist Party (PUP).
[4][5] In August 2010, Sandford resigned from the PUP, saying that the party's close association with the UVF was a "major factor" in his decision.
In these difficult economic times it is reassuring to know that there is a party which has as its goal, the development and growth of our economy alongside ensuring that the most vulnerable in our society are protected.
[10] In January 2019, he was appointed High Sheriff of Belfast after being nominated for the role by the secretary of state for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley.