Marking Bard Orr's death 200 years ago

David Hume (right) pictured with Robert McKee at a previous event celebrating the life of the Bard of Ballycarry, James Orr. INLT 37-017-PSB

The Bard, who is regarded as the Ulster equivalent of Robert Burns, was born in 1770 and the imposing memorial in his honour at the Templecorran cemetery will be the focus for the commemoration at 2pm, organised by the local community association. Chairperson Valerie Beattie said: “James Orr was the foremost of the Weaver Poets in Ulster and his works have been compared favourably with Burns, so it is fitting that we remember the 200th anniversary of his death.”

A plaque trail known as the Weaver’s Trail was established in the village through Heritage Lottery Funding some years ago and those who attend the commemoration will be invited to visit some of the plaques during the afternoon.

There are plans to focus further on Orr and his legacy at September’s 24th annual Broadisland Gathering.