First World War to the fore in Thistle tribute

Members of the Red Hand and Thistle RSC in the mayor's parlour to hand over cheques to the cadets representatives and the Royal British Legion, included is former Mayoress of Carrickfergus, Patricia Johnstone. INCT 13-048-GR

As of previous years, the Red Hand & Thistle Rangers Supporters Club organised the Robert Linton Memorial Competition in October.

Robert (or Bobby as he was better known) was a vice-chairman of the club from its inception in 2003 until his death in 2007.

Finlay Cameron of Red Hand & Thistle explained the club strives to raise funds for local charities and worthy individuals and groups each year as charity was a cause very close to Mr Linton’s heart.

He added: “To commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of World War 1 we have decided to pay tribute to local veterans and youth aligned to our Armed Forces.

“We applaud the Carrickfergus branch of the Royal British Legion for not only their service to our crown and country but also for facilitating and organising local Services that enable us all to pay our respects.

“We also wish to pay tribute to the youth of the borough involved in the Army Cadets, Sea Cadets and Air Training Corps, some of whom may hope to take a career in the services and again help defend our shores and see conflict overseas, but also it is a credit to them, their officers and instructors that this town continues its tradition of having well mannered, respectful and disciplined youth that take a pride in their country and see fit to serve it.

“Whilst the donations are very small, we hope it encourages the recipients to continue their excellent endeavours and take heart that your actions and deeds have not, nor will, ever go un-noticed.”