DNA expert to be guest of Family History group

The branch has hired the main theatre for the event given the considerable interest in DNA testing amongst those who want to learn more about their ancestry.

A qualified doctor, Dublin born Dr Gleeson worked for some in the Lagan Valley Hospital in the late 80’s before moving to London.

A psychiatrist, pharmaceutical physician and part-time actor, he left medical practice to pursue his acting career and has been successful in films and voice overs. He has never given a talk in Northern Ireland before has given several in Dublin.

Tickets for his appearance in Ballymena on April 30 are £5 and are available from the Braid Box Office on 25635900 or any of the Ballymena branch committee members.

A branch spokesperson said: “DNA won’t replace the familiar research techniques of documentary and oral evidence when we are compiling our family tree. It will, however, offer a new research tool with more information and allows us to find others who share our ancestry.

“The story of your family’s history is hidden within your DNA and testing will reveal a snapshot of your ancestors.”