Events
@ The Bothy
The events page showcases a diverse programme of activities taking place in The Bothy, organised by the Ancre Somme Association Charity. It highlights educational talks, historical presentations, commemorative services, and community gatherings, all designed to inform, engage, and inspire.
Visitors can discover upcoming events, learn more about ASA’s work, and find opportunities to participate. The page reflects the charity’s ongoing commitment to Remembering the Past, Supporting the Present and Educating for the Future.
Lord Mayor's
Big Breakfast
Saturday, Apr 11 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Lord Mayor’s Big Breakfast to Support the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.
Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray will host a special Lord Mayor’s Big Breakfast in support of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial, backing the work of the Ancre Somme Association Charity.
The fundraising event will take place on Saturday 11th April, from 9:30hrs to 12:30hrs, at Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan, bringing together members of the community for a morning of food, fellowship, and remembrance.
The Big Breakfast aims to raise vital funds for the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial, a lasting tribute dedicated to remembering the animals that served, suffered, and died alongside British and Commonwealth forces in times of conflict. From the horses and mules of the First World War to messenger pigeons, dogs, and countless other animals who played critical roles in military operations, the Purple Poppy symbolises their courage and sacrifice.
Alderman Moutray said:
“The Purple Poppy Memorial is a powerful reminder that service and sacrifice were not limited to men and women in uniform. Animals also played a vital and often overlooked role in our shared history. I am proud to support the Ancre Somme Association Charity in this important initiative and encourage the public to come along, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and help us honour their legacy.”
The Lord Mayor’s Big Breakfast promises a welcoming atmosphere at Brownlow Courtyard — a growing community hub for heritage, remembrance, and civic events — with proceeds directly supporting the development and promotion of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.
Members of the public, local organisations, veterans, families, and supporters of the Armed Forces community are warmly invited to attend.
Admission: By donation
New Elizabethan Fayre
@Brownlow Courtyard
Saturday, Apr 25 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Step back in time and join us for a spectacular day at the New Elizabethan Fayre! Experience the magic and merriment of a traditional fayre, packed with entertainment and activities for all ages.
Highlights of the Day:
- Royal Exhibition – Discover fascinating displays and historical treasures.
- Stalls Galore – Browse unique crafts, delicious treats, and local goods.
- Live Music – Enjoy performances from talented musicians throughout the day.
- Tombola – Try your luck and win fantastic prizes!
- Wet Sponge Throwing – Have a laugh and soak your friends (or foes)!
- And much, much more!
Interested in running a stall?
Stalls are available from just £20. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to showcase your products or services to a lively crowd.
Book your stall today!
Email:
info@brownlowcourtyard.co.uk
Phone: 02838 810109
Admission: By donation – give what you can and support our community event.
Bring your friends and family for a day full of fun, laughter, and New Elizabethan charm. We can’t wait to see you there!
Among The King's -
The Unknown Warrior
Thursday, Jun 11 from 19:00 pm to 21:00 pm
Among The King's - The Unknown Warrior
Guest Speaker - Mark Scott.
It was the war to end all wars and became one of the bloodiest and cruellest conflicts in history. Into the hands of author Mark Scott came a poignant survivor of those nightmare years a notebook carried through the trenches by his great grandfather, Jimmy Scott, nestled in the pocket of his uniform. In it was a list of names, written with the tiny pencil still attached to the fragile cover.
With this family heirloom in his hand, the author vowed to discover the stories of these men who gave their all in the Great War. Along the way he unravelled a remarkable connection to the story of the Unknown Warrior, unearthing valuable new documents that detailed for the first time the full untold story of this event and what happened to the bodies of those not selected for burial in Westminster Abbey in 1920 those who, like thousands of others, are Known Unto God.
Reading at times like a detective story, this is the moving, often heart-breaking, account of the men whose names Jimmy Scott carefully pencilled into his little notebook.
Admission: By donation
Babi Yar Massacrre
85th Anniversary
Thursday, Oct 08 from 19:00 pm to 21:00 pm
Babi Yar Massacre 85th Anniversary
Guest Speaker - Steven Jaffe
On September 29–30, 1941, in Babyn Yar, a ravine in Kyiv, the Nazis slaughtered more Jews in two days than in any other single German massacre, killing 33,771 Jews. In total, from September 29, 1941, until October 1943, the Nazi occupation authorities killed nearly 100,000 people in and near Babyn Yar.
It was reported that when the Jews – men, women and children – arrived at Babi Yar, they were led through several stages where they were forced to surrender their belongings, then remove their coats, shoes, outer clothing, and eventually even their underwear.
After being stripped, they were taken to a ravine described as roughly 150 metres long, 30 metres wide, and about 15 metres deep. Upon reaching the bottom, they were forced to lie down on top of those who had already been killed before they themselves were killed.
Admission: By donation
