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Secretary of State visits Antrim to back Poppy Appeal and explore award-winning Castle Gardens

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP touring Antrim Castle Gardens with (L-R) Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Richard Baker GM MSc, Director of Community Planning, Ursula Fay, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM and Head Ranger Chris Bryant

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP touring Antrim Castle Gardens with (L-R) Chief Executive of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Richard Baker GM MSc, Director of Community Planning, Ursula Fay, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM and Head Ranger Chris Bryant


The Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, visited Antrim today to lend his support to the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.


Mr Benn purchased a poppy from local volunteers and engaged with veterans, highlighting the vital role of the Poppy Appeal in supporting the Armed Forces community.



Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, together with Deputy Mayor Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM and Chair of the Royal British Legion Antrim Branch, Alderman Paul Michael BEM, briefed Mr. Benn on the Antrim branch’s community work and initiatives.

 

Following his visit to the Royal British Legion, Mr Benn enjoyed a tour of the nearby Antrim Castle Gardens.


Secretary of State, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP purchasing a poppy from Antrim Branch Royal British Legion with Poppy Appeal Organiser Mr Michael Coote.

Secretary of State, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP purchasing a poppy from Antrim Branch Royal British Legion with Poppy Appeal Organiser Mr Michael Coote.

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP presented with a tie and pin from by President of Antrim Branch Royal British Legion, Mr Ron Harrison, Poppy Appeal Organiser Mr Michael Coote and Chair of Antrim Royal British Legion, Alderman Paul Michael.

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP presented with a tie and pin from by President of Antrim Branch Royal British Legion, Mr Ron Harrison, Poppy Appeal Organiser Mr Michael Coote and Chair of Antrim Royal British Legion, Alderman Paul Michael.

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP viewing memorabilia at Antrim Branch Royal British Legion with Chair Alderman Paul Michael.

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP viewing memorabilia at Antrim Branch Royal British Legion with Chair Alderman Paul Michael.


This renowned site, awarded for its exceptional historical and horticultural significance, provided Mr Benn with an opportunity to appreciate Northern Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.


The Mayor and Deputy Mayor, along with Ranger Chris Bryant, guided Mr Benn through the gardens, sharing insights into the gardens history, restoration and its place as a beloved landmark for both residents and visitors.



Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP having a tour of Antrim Castle Gardens with Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM and Head Ranger Chris Bryant.

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP having a tour of Antrim Castle Gardens with Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM and Head Ranger Chris Bryant.

 

The Mayor expressed his appreciation for Mr Benn’s visit stating:


“It is an honour to welcome the Secretary of State to Antrim Castle Gardens, a site cherished by the people of Antrim and Newtownabbey and beyond. We are extremely proud of this heritage site, and the staff and volunteers who give up their time endlessly to maintain. It is always a privilege to share it with visitors”.

 

The Secretary of State said:


“I very much enjoyed my visit to Antrim and would like to thank the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and the volunteers and veterans at the Royal British Legion for their warm welcome. Ahead of Remembrance weekend and Armistice Day, it was a pleasure to show my support for the Poppy Appeal and to learn about the invaluable work of the Royal British Legion locally.



“I also thoroughly enjoyed my tour of the historic Antrim Castle Gardens. It’s a truly wonderful and award-winning place to visit.”


Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP hearing legendary stories from Head Ranger Chris Bryant about the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens

Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP hearing legendary stories from Head Ranger Chris Bryant about the award-winning Antrim Castle Gardens


As Remembrance Day approaches, today’s visit served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve, while also celebrating the shared heritage and natural beauty found in the heart of Antrim Town.

 

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