Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial, Brownlow House, Lurgan (2026)

15/06/2026

ASA Charity Welcomes Mark, Fiona and Assistance Dog Max to Brownlow Courtyard

The Ancre Somme Association (ASA) Charity was delighted to welcome veteran Mark Wright, his wife Fiona, and their remarkable dog Max to the charity's headquarters at Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan, today.

Max, a gentle canine adopted by Mark and Fiona from County Fermanagh, has become an extraordinary source of comfort and support for Mark, who spent five months in hospital suffering from severe Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Despite having no formal training as an assistance dog, Max instinctively understood how to support Mark during periods of distress, providing reassurance, companionship, and a calming presence throughout his recovery journey. His remarkable story has captured the hearts of many and has led to his nomination for Pet Hero of the Year at the National Pet Awards Northern Ireland, which will take place on 27 June at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.

ASA Charity Community Development Officer, Lexi Davidson, said:

"It was a pleasure to welcome Mark, Fiona and Max to Brownlow Courtyard today and to hear first-hand how Max has transformed Mark's life. Stories like this highlight the incredible bond between humans and animals and demonstrate the vital role assistance dogs can play in supporting veterans and others living with PTSD.

Approximately 7,000 people across the United Kingdom rely on assistance dogs every day, many of whom are veterans. Their support can be life-changing, helping individuals regain confidence, independence and a sense of security."

The visit also highlighted the long-term ambitions of the ASA Charity's Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Fund, which commemorates the service and sacrifice of animals in war and conflict.

It is the intention of the charity that one of the lasting legacies of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Fund will be the support of charities that train assistance dogs for veterans suffering from PTSD and other service-related conditions.

Lexi Davidson added:

"As we continue to develop the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Fund we hope to support organisations that provide specially trained assistance dogs to veterans. The difference these animals make to people's lives is truly remarkable."

The ASA Charity would like to thank Mark and Fiona for taking the time to visit Brownlow Courtyard and share their inspiring story. The charity also extends its very best wishes to Max ahead of the National Pet Awards Northern Ireland and hopes he receives the recognition he so richly deserves.

For further information about the ASA Charity and the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Fund, visit www.asauk.org/purple-poppy-fund

ASA Charity NIC108368

12/06/2026

ASA Charity Thanks Supporters Following Inspiring Presentation on The Unknown Warrior

The Ancre Somme Association (ASA) Charity would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who attended our recent presentation by author and historian Mark Scott at Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan.

The event, which attracted visitors from across Northern Ireland, provided a fascinating insight into Mark's acclaimed book, Among The Kings – The Unknown Warrior. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Mark explored the remarkable and often overlooked story of Britain's Unknown Warrior, whose burial in Westminster Abbey in 1920 became one of the most significant acts of national remembrance in modern history.

Guests were captivated as Mark shared the untold story behind the selection, journey, and burial of the Unknown Warrior, highlighting the profound impact the event had on a nation grieving the loss of a generation following the First World War.

Speaking after the event, Ashley Forbes, ASA Charity Vice-Chairman, thanked Mark for delivering an engaging and thought-provoking presentation.

"We are extremely grateful to Mark Scott for taking the time to visit Brownlow Courtyard and share his extensive knowledge and passion for this important chapter of our history. The story of the Unknown Warrior continues to resonate more than a century later, reminding us of the sacrifice made by so many families during the Great War."

ASA Charity extends its sincere gratitude to all attendees and supporters of the event. The impressive attendance underscores the sustained public commitment to remembrance, education, and the preservation of our collective history for future generations. We also express our appreciation for the generous donation made in support of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.

As part of our commitment to Remembering the Past, Supporting the Present, and Educating for the Future, ASA Charity will continue to host a programme of talks, exhibitions, and educational events throughout the year.

For information on upcoming presentations, events, and activities, please visit the ASA Charity events page at www.asauk.org/events.

ASA Charity NIC108368

31/05/2026

Among The King’s – The Unknown Warrior

You are warmly invited to attend a special evening of remembrance, history, and reflection at Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan on Thursday 11th June from 7.00pm to 9.00pm for:

Featuring guest speaker and author Mark Scott, this fascinating and moving presentation explores the untold stories behind one of the most poignant symbols of the First World War — the Unknown Warrior.

Drawn from a remarkable family heirloom carried through the trenches by his great-grandfather, Jimmy Scott, Mark’s research uncovers the lives of soldiers carefully recorded within a small wartime notebook. Through years of investigation, he reveals a powerful connection to the story of the Unknown Warrior and sheds new light on the events surrounding the burial in Westminster Abbey in 1920, including the forgotten fate of those not selected — men who remain “Known Unto God”.

Part historical investigation and part deeply personal journey, this compelling talk offers a unique insight into the sacrifice, courage, and humanity of those who served during the Great War.

Event Details

Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan
Thursday 11th June 2026
7.00pm – 9.00pm
Admission by donation

If you plan to attend this event please register to avoid disappointment, as seating is limited.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/among-the-kings-the-unknown-warrior-tickets-1986203209266

We would be delighted if you could join us for what promises to be a memorable and thought-provoking evening.

ASA Charity NIC108368

28/05/2026

Today we remember Corporal David Brian Brown QGM and his dog Oliver. Corporal Brown was an ammunition and explosive search dog handler with the 3rd Battalion, The Ulster Defence Regiment. He and Oliver, a Golden Labrador, were killed by a terrorist explosive device during a search operation in Kilkeel on May 28th, 1986.

Corporal Brown was awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal posthumously and the notification was published in the Supplement to the London Gazette dated 14 April 1987; the background to his award included the following:

'The Queen's Gallantry Medal is awarded for exemplary acts of bravery, and is in recognition not only of his actions in the incident in which he died, but also of the outstanding performance of his duties as a search expert over a period of years, during which he also received the General Officer Commanding's Commendation'.

'He died, together with his specially trained 'sniffer dog' Oliver, while searching a garage for a suspected bomb on 28th May 1986. Corporal Brown was fully aware of the risks involved in carrying out his mission, but was equally aware of the risk to the community posed by the terrorist bombing campaign.'

Corporal Brown lived in Ballynahinch. He left a widow and four children.

We Will Remember Them

"𝕲𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖑𝖆𝖞 𝖉𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖑𝖎𝖋𝖊 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖋𝖗𝖎𝖊𝖓𝖉𝖘."

https://www.asauk.org/purple-poppy-fund

ASA Charity NIC108368

17/05/2026

The Ancre Somme Association Charity would like to sincerely thank everyone who donated to the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial Fund during this year’s Brownlow House Tattoo.

The charity is currently fundraising to create and unveil the first memorial in Northern Ireland dedicated to all the animals that served during conflicts and wars from the First World War through to the present day. The memorial will honour the bravery, sacrifice, and service of animals that supported troops on the frontlines and behind the scenes throughout history.

Speaking after the event, Lexi Davidson, Community Development Officer for the Ancre Somme Association Charity, said:

“Animals have played, and continue to play, a vital role in supporting our troops during times of conflict. From the horses of the Somme, to messenger pigeons, military dogs, and countless other animals, their contribution and sacrifice should never be forgotten.

We look forward to unveiling the memorial next year to coincide with International War Animal Day.”

The charity also wished to place on record its appreciation to the Brownlow House Tattoo Committee for their continued support of the project and everyone who generously donated on the day. A total of £276.76 was raised in support of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.

They Served Together

To learn more about the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial visit.

https://www.asauk.org/purple-poppy-fund

ASA CHARITY NIC108368

15/05/2026

The Ancre Somme Association Charity are honoured to have been chosen as the nominated charity at the Brownlow House Tattoo this Saturday 16th May.

All donations received on the night will go towards the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial — a unique project which aims to create Northern Ireland’s first memorial dedicated to all animals that served from the First World War to the present day.

From the brave horses who carried men and supplies across the battlefields of the Somme, to the pigeons that delivered lifesaving messages from mainland Europe, and the courageous dogs that served alongside troops in Afghanistan — this memorial will ensure their loyalty, sacrifice and service are never forgotten.

🐾 “They Served Together” 🐾

We encourage everyone attending the Tattoo to support this important remembrance project and help us honour the animals who stood beside generations of servicemen and women in times of war and conflict.

If you would like to learn more about the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial or support the appeal, please visit:

www.asauk.org/purple-poppy-fund

ASA Charity NIC108368

24/04/2026

Celebrate a truly royal occasion with us at Brownlow Courtyard 👑✨

Join us as we mark the Centenary of the Birth of Queen Elizabeth II with a spectacular New Elizabethan Fayre—a day filled with tradition, community spirit, and family fun.

📅 Saturday, 25th April 2026
⏰ 10:00am – 5:00pm
📍 Brownlow Courtyard, Brownlow House

🌟 Highlights include:

• Royal Exhibition
• Stalls Galore
• Live Music
• Tombola
• Facepainting

Bring your friends and family and enjoy a wonderful day celebrating heritage and community in a truly historic setting.

🎟 Admission: By donation

www.brownlowcourtyard.co.uk

11/04/2026

ASA Charity Thanks Community for Strong Support at Big Breakfast Fundraiser

The Ancre Somme Association (ASA) Charity would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who supported the recent Big Breakfast fundraiser in aid of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.

The event took place on Saturday, April 11th, at the charity's headquarters in Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan. It was graciously hosted by Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray and gathered supporters from across Northern Ireland.

The ASA Charity is currently working to raise £20,000 to deliver Northern Ireland’s first dedicated memorial to honour all animals that have served in conflict from the First World War through to the present day.

The memorial, which is being expertly crafted by Moneypenny's Blacksmiths Workshop, will feature life-sized representations of a horse and a dog, alongside a pigeon perched on a stone plinth. Once completed, the memorial will be permanently located within Brownlow Courtyard.

The Big Breakfast proved a great success, with over 100 attendees helping to raise almost £1,200 towards the project. The charity was delighted with the level of support shown and the strong sense of community spirit throughout the morning.

The ASA Charity would like to express its gratitude to all sponsors and supporters, including Alderman Stephen Moutray, Carla Lockhart MP, Cllr Peter Haire, and John Dumigan. Special thanks are also extended to Flute Band Church and Brownlow House for their continued help and support.

Finally, the charity would like to thank everyone who attended the event. Your support is genuinely appreciated and will help ensure that the vital role of animals in times of conflict is never forgotten.

To learn more about the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial or to support the project, please visit:

https://www.asauk.org/purple-poppy-fund

"𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐭, 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞."

ASA Northern Ireland Charity purplepoppies.com.au Miss Poppy and friends The War Horse Memorial Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation

ASA Charity
Registered Charity NIC108368

10/04/2026

Welcome to the ASA Charity HQ 🇬🇧

Set within the historic surroundings of Brownlow House, the ASA Charity stands as a place of remembrance, support, and education for our community.

We are proud to honour those who came before us, support those who serve today, and inspire future generations through our work.
Remembering the Past, Supporting the Present and Educating for the Future.

👉 Discover the story behind the charity, our mission, and the impact we’re making:

🔗 https://www.asauk.org/about

Together, we ensure that sacrifice is never forgotten and that legacy lives on.
We Will Remember Them

"𝕲𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖑𝖆𝖞 𝖉𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖑𝖎𝖋𝖊 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖋𝖗𝖎𝖊𝖓𝖉𝖘."

ASA Charity
Registered Charity NIC108368

Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial

15/06/2026

12/06/2026

31/05/2026

28/05/2026

17/05/2026

15/05/2026

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10/04/2026

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