Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins welcomed Ballymoney historian, Lewis Elliot and his family for a special reception at Cloonavin last week.
Lewis has spent years building an extraordinary collection of military memorabilia, inspired by stories shared by his granda, Tommy Elliott, about the First and Second World Wars.
What began as a childhood interest in old coins and wartime dates has grown into a remarkable passion for preserving history and honouring the stories of those who came before us.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins said; “It was a pleasure to meet with Lewis and his family and to learn more about this remarkable collection.
“The passion, dedication and care he has shown in researching, preserving and documenting these artefacts is truly commendable.
“His commitment to safeguarding these important pieces of history helps ensure that chapters of our local heritage and military past are not forgotten but instead remain accessible for future generations to learn from and appreciate.
“Collections such as this provide a valuable connection to the people, stories and events that have helped shape our community.”