Ceremony at Childrens Somme Garden

At 10pm on 1st July 2008, the 92nd anniversary of the start of the Battle of the Somme, a moving ceremony took place in the Somme Garden at Cloughey.  This was the first time the new lights had been switched on to illuminate the display panels and the centrepiece.  Wreaths were laid on behalf of the Royal British Legion, the CDCA, Cloughey Bowling Club, and North Down Somme Society.  After readings by Rev Gray, Eddie Torney and Joe Maclean the Last Post was followed by a minute's silence. 

A medley of tunes from the First World War was then played by Portaferry Accordion Band, which was greatly enjoyed by the assembled group of about 40 people.   See photos below...

Somme Exhibition in Pavilion

Earlier in the evening, over 100 people visited the exhibition which included artifacts, maps and photos provided by the Somme Association. This exhibition was organised by the CDCA to coincide with the anniversary of the Battle commencement.

The Childrens Somme Garden was created by the CDCA alongside Ards Borough Council, with the support of Lower Ards Community Assistance Group and funded from Ards Local Strategy Partnership, the Re-imaging Communities Programme, and the EC Programme for Peace and Reconciliation.

CDCA Chairman Joe Maclean 

Onlookers enjoy the music.

Centrepiece illumniated by new lighting