Lisburn & Castlereagh Council Delegation Marks Somme Anniversary in France
A delegation from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, led by The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor Brian Higginson, recently completed a visit to the Western Front to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. The visit focused on honoring those who served.
Why the Council Visited the Somme
The delegation traveled to the Somme region to pay formal respects at key memorial sites. The visit served as a civic act of remembrance.
Mayor Brian Higginson stated that the visit was intended to ensure that the legacy of those who served continues to be recognized by current civic leaders. The delegation participated in wreath-laying ceremonies at the Ulster Memorial Tower, a landmark dedicated specifically to the men of the 36th Division.
Historical Significance of the 36th (Ulster) Division
The Ulster Memorial Tower, where the council delegation laid wreaths, is a replica of Helen’s Tower, located in County Down. It stands as a permanent reminder of the region’s contribution to the First World War. The site is managed by the Somme Association, which works to preserve the history of the soldiers who fought in the trenches of the Western Front.
How the Somme is Commemorated Today
Commemorations at the Somme have evolved from localized veteran gatherings to structured civic and national events. While the centenary in 2016 drew international attention, annual visits by local councils and historical societies continue to play a role in maintaining the site’s upkeep and educational outreach.
| Key Event | Historical Context |
|---|---|
| Battle of the Somme | July 1 – November 18, 1916 |
| 36th (Ulster) Division | Suffered ~5,000 casualties in July 1916 |
| Ulster Memorial Tower | Dedicated to the 36th Division in Thiepval |
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of the delegation’s visit marks a continued commitment by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to support military heritage projects. These efforts are part of a broader regional focus on the “Decade of Centenaries,” a series of initiatives across Northern Ireland designed to explore the complex historical events of the 1912–1922 period. Future civic engagements are expected to maintain these links to French and Belgian memorial sites, ensuring that the history of the Somme remains accessible to new generations.