The annual Through the Wars Exhibition, organized by the Bushmills community group, was officially opened by the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
Held at the Dunluce Parish Centre in Bushmills, the exhibition will run from Friday, July 14th, until Monday, July 24th, 2023. This year, the exhibition aims to support local charities including Diabetes UK, the Poppy Appeal, and The Church of Ireland’s Bishops Appeal.
Mayor Councillor Steven Callaghan expressed his delight in opening the exhibition and meeting the visitors and participants. He emphasized the significant role that Bushmills played during both world wars and the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by the men and women from the area. The Mayor commended the organizers and thanked them for inviting him to the event, expressing his hope for a successful fundraising outcome.
Colonel Neil Salisbury OBE, His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant for County Antrim, also attended the exhibition and praised the organizers for the high standard of exhibits. He highlighted the educational value of the exhibition, offering something of interest for all ages and providing visitors with an opportunity to understand the impact of recent wars on Bushmills and the people of North Antrim.
Since its inception in 2007, the Through the Wars Exhibition has raised tens of thousands of pounds for various charities, including the Alzheimer’s Society, the Cancer Fund for Children, and the Royal British Legion. This year, the chosen charity is Diabetes UK. Nikki Picken, Treasurer of the Diabetes UK Coleraine support group, expressed gratitude to the event organizers for their support. The funds raised will directly benefit local individuals living with diabetes, providing them with much-needed support.
Entrance to the exhibition is priced at £4, with free entry for children. Visitors can also enjoy a 1940s-style tearoom serving delicious scones and tray bakes during the exhibition.
