The plans to help young people from North Belfast to learn more about the history and legacy of the First World War received a grant of £10,000. Using artefacts, photos and diaries held by museums and other historical institutions they will explore the local and international contexts within which the war was fought, how it affected their local area and the realities of life for those fighting and those who remained at home. A photographic exhibition and new mural will be created and launched at the North Belfast Respect programme.

A £6,400 grant was awarded to explore and record the forgotten industrial and maritime heritage of the northern side of Belfast port. Volunteers will research the historical contribution made by industry workers, as well as the events and places that contributed to the Belfast of today. This heritage will be recorded in a booklet, website and an exhibition in the Dockers Club in Pilot Street.

Ranging from the preservation of traditional skills, to the restoration of an important local landmark in Fivemiletown, the grants awarded today will help local communities get actively involved in heritage projects that matter to them.

Announcing the awards, Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, said: “These five grants are the latest to be awarded in support of smaller or more modest projects that really help local people to dig into their past to explore, record, or share their heritage, and we are delighted to support these two new projects in Belfast.

“With HLF’s investment in Northern Ireland reaching a huge £184million, we are proud of our role in helping to protect and celebrate our heritage over the last 19 years and look forward to supporting many more local projects.”

Notes to editors

Since 1994 the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded £184million to over 1,000 projects across Northern Ireland.

Further information

HLF (NI): Julie Halliday, email: julieh@hlf.org.uk, mobile: 07733 100 674.