Northern Ireland environment agency offers step back in time to the eisenhower war years

Visitors to Castle Archdale Country Park will later this month take a step back in time to the build-up to the World War II D-Day landings.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) will offer the public a wonderful opportunity to come along and find out what life was like for members of the military based in Co Fermanagh at the time.

The event, taking place on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May, will coincide with the visit of the American Consul, Susan Elliot, to commemorate General Eisenhower’s visit to Portora Playing Fields on 18 May 1944.

NIEA Warden Conaire McNeary explained: “We have a wide range of World War II themed activities taking place throughout the weekend including displays by the American Bazooka team, Wehrmacht Panzerschrek team and an Enfield rifle drill by the Royal Ulster Rifles.

“All of these demonstrations will be conducted by the Wartime Living History Association.”

Visitors will also be able to enjoy guided walks (pre-booking is essential) of the Castle Archdale World War II sites and live big band music in the courtyard.

Notes to Editors:

1. The event takes place at Castle Archdale Country Park between 12.00hrs and 16.00hrs on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May and is free of charge.
2. To find out more about this event telephone (028) 6862 1588 or log on to www.wonderfulni.info
3. For media inquiries please contact the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003 or out of hours call the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 0769971 5440 and your call will be returned.