Hillsborough Remembrance event praised

Colin Preen of Hillsborough Strategy Group and Joanne Walker Chair of the Women's Section of the RBL and Councillor Alexander Redpath at the Hillsborough War Memorial during the First World War commemoration on Monday August 4

The historic event, held at Hillsborough War Memorial, was organised by the Hillsborough Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion.

The Rev Dr Bryan Follis, rector of Hillsborough Parish, conducted the service and act of remembrance.

Garvey Silver Band played a selection of music and together with a joint choir from Hillsborough Parish and Hillsborough Presbyterian Churches, led the singing of the hymns, ‘O God our help in ages past’ and ‘Be Thou my vision’.

Hillsborough Fort Bugler Andrew Carlisle played the last post and reveille and the ‘Roll of Honour’ remembering the 119 names of the fallen from the Hillsborough area were read by twelve young people from local churches, as well as family members of the fallen and Hillsborough branch of the Royal British Legion.

Hillsborough Parish bellringers rang the church bells and the evening concluded as Simon Walker (Bell Tower Captain) rang a bell 119 times to remember the 119 from the Hillsborough areas that were killed in World War One.

Speaking after the event, Lisburn Councillor Alexander Redpath, said: “The act of remembrance at Hillsborough War Memorial was very moving.

“The event came together perfectly and I’d like to commend the Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion for its organisation.

“The band were excellent as were the young people from various churches and uniformed organisations who performed readings.

“I would also like to thank Hillsborough Old Guard for preparing an exhibition in the nearby church hall which many attended after the act of remembrance.”