Donaghcloney group marks sacrifice at the Great War

The Donaghcloney ‘Remembers The Somme’, a week of events organised by a local steering committee, will reflect upon the sacrifice made by so many 100 years ago.

To commence activities, an 80-page booklet has been recently launched capturing the stories of a number of Donaghcloney men and focusing on the early years of training and recruitment through to the unveiling of Donaghcloney War Memorial.

The four local churches have also provided a foreword for the booklet.

The book is currently available priced at £3, available during the week of activities planned or by contacting the numbers at the conclusion of this article.

In addition to the book, other events have been arranged.

Events were due to commence on Tuesday June 21, with the opening of an exhibition.

A special feature of the exhibition includes the Standards of the 2nd Battalion West Down Ulster Volunteer Regiment, on view in Donaghcloney Orange Hall.

The exhibition features Postcards of the Great War, artifacts and memorabilia on view in Donaghcloney Orange Hall.

Also on Tuesday evening, a presentation on the Great War and the local area input was scheduled to be provided by renowned historian Richard Edgar at the Orange Hall, with Banbridge Accordian Orchestra providing a musical display.

A short sing-a-long of war time songs was also on the agenda.

On Wednesday, June 22, the entire community are invited to participate in a parade and Act of Remembrance. Meeting at the British Legion at 7pm.

The parade will commence at 7.15pm and make its way through the village before an Act of Remembrance to be held at the War Memorial.

All Loyal Orders, churches, youth organisations, sports organisations, community groups and the community are invited to parade to the War Memorial.

The parade will be headed by a colour party and historical re-enactors, resembling the scenes from 100 ago, whilst Banbridge Silver Band will be present to lead the service.

Local school children, churches and a community choir will also participate in the short remembrance service.

The Great War exhibition will remain open at the Orange Hall on this evening, with light refreshments to be served at the Royal British Legion at the conclusion of the parade.

A selection of military vehicles will also be on view and will be located centrally in the village.

On Thursday 23, the Great War Postcard exhibition provided by Ashley Forbes will again open at 7pm.

On Friday, July 1, the annual Somme parade hosted by the Royal British Legion will leave the Legion at 7.15pm.

The ‘Postcards from the Front’ School display will also be on display during the exhibition at the Orange Hall.

All events are free and everyone is invited to attend and participate.

For further details, check out the group’s facebook page or contact: 07756286740 or 07899961420