Knockagh to be venue for VE beacon

The beacon at Knockagh is one of five special VE Day beacons which will be lit across Northern Ireland on Friday.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Billy Ashe, will lead a short ceremony at Knockagh Monument, Greenisland, that evening and will light the beacon at 9.32pm in the presence of various borough dignitaries, military representatives and representatives from six branches of the Royal British Legion.

It was on VE day 70 years ago that peace broke out and brought an end to nearly six years of war across Europe.

In 1995, beacons were also lit to mark half a century since VE Day on May 8, 1945.

Mayor Ashe says: “We cannot let this day pass without reflecting on the sacrifice and courage of the people who saw us through this period in our history. The commemoration should be a time to remember and pay tribute to all those who played their part.

“It is a privilege that Mid and East Antrim is one of only five Boroughs in Northern Ireland to host a commemorative beacon.

“I would invite everyone to witness the lighting of the beacon at Knockagh Monument.

“This position was chosen as it is the site of the County Antrim War Memorial, and is visible from over 50 miles away. This is a fitting tribute to commemorate the peace that was achieved 70 years ago.”

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has been working in partnership with the Royal British Legion to organise the event.

Those wishing to attend the ceremony, which is open to all, should arrive at Knockagh Monument between 8.45pm and 9pm.