Association’s annual parade

The parade will begin at Brownlow House at 8pm and will make its way to Union Street where a wreath will be laid in memory of Vol. William McFadzean VC followed by a homage to the men from the surrounding areas who fought and died in that terrible war.

The parade will proceed to the war memorial for the wreath laying ceremony, then make its way back to Brownlow House.

On arrival at Brownlow House the Association will be holding the first of, hopefully, many live exhibitions in and around the grounds of Brownlow House.

It is hoped this exhibition will show the public the hard work and research that Ancre Somme Association has undertaken to keep their culture alive.

A spokesman said: “The exhibition will begin with a member reciting one of Lord Carson’s most famous speeches, following that the men will be invited to sign the Ulster Covenant and the women the Declaration. The Association will then show how Ulster men took up arms to keep our land free from Home Rule by forming the Ulster Volunteer Force.

“Finally there will be a moving tribute to the brave volunteers who fought in the 36th (Ulster) Division.

“This is open to everybody so we hope to see you there.”