ASA Northern Ireland Charity

ASA Northern Ireland Charity Registered Charity NIC108368

Today we remember Constable Roland John Graham (34), from Richhill, Co Armagh, and Reserve Constable David Andrew Johnst...
16/06/2026

Today we remember Constable Roland John Graham (34), from Richhill, Co Armagh, and Reserve Constable David Andrew Johnston (30), from Lisburn, Co Antrim who were murdered by the IRA in Lurgan on the 16th June 1997.

They were on foot patrol in a small lane called church Walk in the town centre, just yards from the town's RUC station.

Constable Graham was married with three daughters aged 10, seven and two. He joined the RUC in 1983 and held the RUC service medal. Constable Johnston was married with two sons aged seven and three. He joined the RUC in 1986; and also held the RUC service medal. Both men were attached to Lurgan RUC station. They worked as community policemen and were regularly seen on foot patrol in the town centre.

According to the RUC, at least two people ran up to the officers at around 11.45 a.m. and shot them in the back of the head at point-blank range. The assailants, who were thought to be wearing wigs, escaped in a green Rover car which was found burnt out in the nearby nationalist Kilwilkee estate. The IRA's north Armagh brigade admitted responsibility.

We Will Remember Them

"π•²π–—π–Šπ–†π–™π–Šπ–— π–‘π–”π–›π–Š 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 π–™π–π–Žπ–˜, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 π–‘π–†π–ž π–‰π–”π–œπ–“ π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‘π–Žπ–‹π–Š 𝖋𝖔𝖗 π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‹π–—π–Žπ–Šπ–“π–‰π–˜."




www.asauk.org

ASA Charity NIC108368

ASA Charity Welcomes Mark, Fiona and Assistance Dog Max to Brownlow CourtyardThe Ancre Somme Association (ASA) Charity w...
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

Lisburn Fun Run Bombing15th June 1988On the 15th June 1988 an unmarked military van carrying six British Army soldiers w...
15/06/2026

Lisburn Fun Run Bombing
15th June 1988

On the 15th June 1988 an unmarked military van carrying six British Army soldiers was blown up by the IRA at Market Place in Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

The explosion took place at the end of a charity fun run in which the soldiers had participated. All six soldiers were killed in the attack – four outright, one on his way to hospital and another later on in hospital.

Four of the dead were from the Royal Corps of Signals Regiment whilst the other two were from the Green Howards and Royal Army Ordnance Corps Regiments respectively.

Sergeant Michael Winkler (31)
Signalman Mark Clavey (24)
Lance Corporal Graham Lambie (22)
Corporal William Patterson (22)
Corporal Ian Metcalf (36)
Lance Corporal Derek Green (20)

The booby-trap bomb was hidden under the Ford Transit van in which the soldiers were travelling. It was designed in such a way that the blast went upwards to cause maximum damage to the vehicle.

Eleven civilian bystanders were injured, including a two-year-old child and 80-year-old man.

We Will Remember Them

"π•²π–—π–Šπ–†π–™π–Šπ–— π–‘π–”π–›π–Š 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 π–™π–π–Žπ–˜, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 π–‘π–†π–ž π–‰π–”π–œπ–“ π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‘π–Žπ–‹π–Š 𝖋𝖔𝖗 π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‹π–—π–Žπ–Šπ–“π–‰π–˜."




www.asauk.org

ASA Charity NIC108368

🎁 Looking for the perfect Father's Day gift?This Father's Day, give a gift that combines style, heritage and remembrance...
14/06/2026

🎁 Looking for the perfect Father's Day gift?

This Father's Day, give a gift that combines style, heritage and remembrance.

Our 36th (Ulster) Division Tie, Cuff Links & Tie Pin Set is a thoughtful gift for fathers, grandfathers, veterans, serving personnel and anyone proud of the legacy of the 36th (Ulster) Division. Featuring a matching tie, cuff links and tie pin, this elegant set is ideal for formal occasions, parades, remembrance services and special family events.

At just Β£24.99, it is a meaningful way to say thank you to the man who has always been there. Available now from the Empire Poppy Store.

Father's Day is on Sunday 21st June – order yours today and receive your FREE 36th (Ulster) Division Enamel Badge.

πŸ›’ Visit the Empire Poppy Store:

https://empirepoppy.store/collections/36th-ulster-division-collection

Coleraine Railway Road Bombing 12th June 1973On the 12th June 1973 IRA terrorists detonated two car bombs in Coleraine, ...
12/06/2026

Coleraine Railway Road Bombing
12th June 1973

On the 12th June 1973 IRA terrorists detonated two car bombs in Coleraine, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

The first bomb exploded at 3:00 pm on Railway Road, killing six people and injuring 33; several lost limbs and were left disabled for life. A second bomb exploded five minutes later at Hanover Place.

Today we remember those who were murdered that fateful day.

Elizabeth Craigmile (76)

Robert Scott (72)

Dinah Campbell (72)

Francis Campbell (70)

Nan Davis (60)

Elizabeth Palmer (60)

We Will Remember Them

"π•²π–—π–Šπ–†π–™π–Šπ–— π–‘π–”π–›π–Š 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 π–™π–π–Žπ–˜, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 π–‘π–†π–ž π–‰π–”π–œπ–“ π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‘π–Žπ–‹π–Š 𝖋𝖔𝖗 π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‹π–—π–Žπ–Šπ–“π–‰π–˜."




www.asauk.org

ASA Charity NIC108368

ASA Charity Thanks Supporters Following Inspiring Presentation on The Unknown WarriorThe Ancre Somme Association (ASA) C...
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

Among The King’s – The Unknown WarriorYou are warmly invited to attend a special evening of remembrance, history, and re...
11/06/2026

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, tonight, 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 β€” 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 β€” men who remain β€œKnown 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

ASA Charity NIC108368

The Glorious Dead Enamel Pin BadgeThe Cenotaph is a war memorial on Whitehall in London, England. Designed by Sir Edwin ...
08/06/2026

The Glorious Dead Enamel Pin Badge

The Cenotaph is a war memorial on Whitehall in London, England. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it was unveiled in 1920 as the United Kingdom's national memorial to the dead of Britain and the British Empire of the First World War. It was rededicated in 1946 to include those of the Second World War, and has since come to represent the Commonwealth casualties from those and later conflicts.

We Will Remember Them

Size: 35mm x 27mm

Attachment: Butterfly Clip

https://empirepoppy.store/collections/badges/products/the-glorious-dead-enamel-pin-badge

Supporting the ASA Charity NIC108368

Battle of MessinesOn 7th June 1917, the 36th (Ulster) Division and the 16th (Irish) Division went into battle side by si...
07/06/2026

Battle of Messines

On 7th June 1917, the 36th (Ulster) Division and the 16th (Irish) Division went into battle side by side at the Battle of Messines.

Each Division was tasked with taking one half of the village of Wytschaete. The battle was a success, and the objectives were taken.

In July, the Division took part in the 3rd Battle of Ypres and, on 20th November, the Battle of Cambrai but the battles took their toll and, by August, the 16th (Irish) Division had lost over 4,200 casualties.

We Will Remember Them

"π•²π–—π–Šπ–†π–™π–Šπ–— π–‘π–”π–›π–Š 𝖍𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖓𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖓 π–™π–π–Žπ–˜, 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖓 π–‘π–†π–ž π–‰π–”π–œπ–“ π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‘π–Žπ–‹π–Š 𝖋𝖔𝖗 π–π–Žπ–˜ π–‹π–—π–Žπ–Šπ–“π–‰π–˜."




www.asauk.org

ASA Charity NIC108368

Great to see ASA Charity’s UK Ambassadors, Carla Lockhart MP and Graham Dodds MBE, taking part in the Somme 110 Walk yes...
06/06/2026

Great to see ASA Charity’s UK Ambassadors, Carla Lockhart MP and Graham Dodds MBE, taking part in the Somme 110 Walk yesterday in support of two fantastic causes – The Somme Association and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland. πŸ‘πŸ«‘

Their participation highlights the importance of remembrance, community spirit, and supporting organisations that make a real difference to people's lives.

A sincere well done to everyone who took part, volunteered, and helped make the event such a success.



www.asauk.org

ASA Charity NIC108368

Address

Brownlow House
Lurgan
BT679BJ

Telephone

+442838810109

Website

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