Welcome from the Chairman

In the Eary 1900's Randalstown was a small close knit community in which was sustained by argriculture and employment in the local linen industry-the home of the Old Bleach Linen Company which provided tableware to Royalty and famously the impressive dining rooms of the ill-fated "Titanic"

As the war clouds darkened over Europe, many of the lacal young people volunteered for the great adventure by joining the army. All too soon however the grim reality of the horrors of war became evident as was witnessed in the Army Hospital  Camp based in Dunmore Park on the edge of the village. But this did not deter more and more from supporting the "just cause" of the Allies.

The Randalstown Branch of the Royal British Legion was formed in 1925 by the surviving ex-service personnel from the area.

The Second World War again saw many of Randalstown's young men and women  putting their country and community before all by joining the Navy, Army and Air-Force, This service has to been seen as even more selfless when one remembers that conscription was not extended to Nothern Ireland and all service was volunatry.

Over 400 men and women from Randalstown served during World Wars and sadly more than 80 did not return.

It is the proud duty of the Royal British Legion to ensure that the memory of these brave people is honourably kept and the Randalstown Branch, re- juvenated by an enthusiastic Secretary, has recently brought a major project to fruition in the shape of our Memorial Garden. A previously derlict area of ground superbly transformed into a beautifitully landscaped area, with voluntary labour and massive fund-raising, to stand as a testament to Comrades who stood for the right to self determination without suppression and who risked all for our futures.

With our Branch steadily growing, we can now look to the needs of our Comrades and to ensure that all the care and attention they deserve is obtained because, whereas it is important to remember past sacrifices, the most pressing duty is towards the quality of life for the living.

We invite anyone visiting the area to stop for a while in the Garden and enjoy a brief respite from the bustle of modern life but also to bear in mind that it represents and give thanks to the courageous men and women who gave so much.

Randalstown Branch was first established in 1925.