Anniversaries in Downpatrick

Anniversaries in Downpatrick

21 May 2025

THE 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day was celebrated in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon.

An act of remembrance at the town’s war memorial was followed by a service in Down Cathedral.

The events also marked the 100th anniversary of the construction of the war memorial and the laying up of the Downpatrick Royal British Legion branch’s old standard.

Members of the branch were joined by other branches in the Legion’s Group Seven area, including Ballynahinch, Killyleagh and Killinchy, Kilkeel, Dromore, Rathfriland, Bessbrook and Newry.

Also in attendance was the Lord Lieutenant, Mr Gawn Rowan-Hamilton, who took the salute as the Legion members paraded to the war memorial.

The parade was led by Dunmore Sliver Band and Moneygore Pipe Band. At the war memorial a wreath was laid by Mr Raymond Martin, president of Downpatrick Royal British Legion branch, who was escorted by Mrs Geraldine Campbell and Mr Jack McIlheron.

The service was conducted by Dean Henry Blair, who was assisted by the Rev Sabrina Cooke and the Rev Mark Lennox, who gave the address.

In his welcoming remarks, Dean Blair said: “We meet here today, in the presence of God to give thanks and remember the 80th anniversary of VE day that officially marked the end of the second world war in Europe and to lay down this standard for the Downpatrick Branch of the Royal British Legion.

“We also give thanks on this the 100th anniversary of Downpatrick’s war memorial remembering those who have given their lives in two world wars and subsequent conflicts.”

“We remember before God and give thanks for the noble ideals and great purposes, inspired by Almighty God, to which the members of the Royal British Legion strive for such purposes being the care of those of our brethren who are still serving in our military forces and those who have served and have struggled within civilian life, the care of widows, orphans and other dependents of those who served.”

Binyon’s Lines and the Kohima Epitaph were read by Mr Keith Straney, chairman of Downpatrick Royal British Legion branch.

The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Mr Derek McNeil.