Reasons for wearing a poppy outlined at Downshire

Mr Middleton, head of Social Studies at the school, gave an overview of the sacrifice of war making reference to the 70th anniversary of VE Day and the reasons for wearing the poppy.

Joan Thompson, representing the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corp and Alan Hamilton, chair of Carrickfergus RBL, both addressed the assembly.

Ed McKnight, vice-chairman Carrick RBL, then led those gathered in an act of remembrance with four Downshire pupils, who are local Army Cadets, presenting standards and laying a wreath.

The service, the school added, was very poignant and the act of remembrance “was observed with the utmost respect by staff, pupils and visitors”.

“The students and staff of Downshire School are extremely grateful to the members of the Royal British Legion who attended and assisted with our act of remembrance.”