Foreword
I have always been interested in understanding our military history and how all our communities helped mould the country that we live and prosper in today. I passionately believe that we must remember those that have served our country and those that have given their all for our country and the life we lead.
I believe that it is noble of you, the members of the Ancre Somme Association, to perpetuate the memory of those that have gone before us both in the locally raised Battalions during the Great War of 1914-1918 and onto further wars and conflicts around the world and Empire.
Service men and Volunteers have shaped our Ulster and British traditions and our way of life. It is only fitting that we remember these men and their service.
The Ancre Somme Association's trip to mark the 100 year anniversary of the Battle of the Somme was both solemn and fitting remembering the great sacrifices that were made by the volunteer battalions on The Somme in 1916. From a personal point of view it was tremendously pleasurable being in the company of so many people who shared my interest and belief in the strategic aims of the Ancre Somme Association.
As the Associations Patron I take up the baton and will rise to the challenge. I fully support The Ancre Somme Association's Mission, 'To Actively Commemorate, Educate & Raise Awareness on the Events Preceding, Surrounding and Following the Battle of the Somme Including Subsequent Conflicts, Battles & Wars.'
I believe that we as an Association can march forward, or as the Royal Irish Fusiliers war cry stated we can Clear the Way (Faugh a Ballagh).
It is an honour to be the Patron of The Ancre Somme Association Charity.
Ant Maher
Lt Col Ant B Maher VR
Patron
Ancre Somme Association
WE COMMIT TO THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT
We are honoured to have signed and pledged to the Armed Forces Covenant which supports the Armed Forces Community.
What is the Armed Forces Covenant
An Enduring Covenant Between The People of the United Kingdom Her Majesty's Government and all those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces of the Crown and their Families.
The first duty of Government is the defence of the realm. Our Armed Forces fulfil that responsibility on behalf of the Government, sacrificing some civilian freedoms, facing danger and, sometimes, suffering serious injury or death as a result of their duty. Families also play a vital role in supporting the operational effectiveness of our Armed Forces.
In return, the whole nation has a moral obligation to the members of the Naval Service, the Army and the Royal Air Force, together with their families. They deserve our respect and support, and fair treatment.
Those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether Regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services. Special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved.
This obligation involves the whole of society: it includes voluntary and charitable bodies, private organisations, and the actions of individuals in supporting the Armed Forces. Recognising those who have performed military duty unites the country and demonstrates the value of their contribution. This has no greater expression than in upholding this Covenant.
Signing the Armed Forces Covenant
The Armed Forces Covenant was signed by the Ancre Somme Association Chairman, Mark Jameson, on the 26th July 2023.
Signed Armed Forces Covenant - Download
Education Remembrance Support
Education
It is important that our communities, in particular our young people, have an understanding of the past.
Our Association is currently engaging with community organisations and schools across the United Kingdom.
Remembrance
It is important that our communities, in particular our young people, have an understanding of the past.
Our Association is currently engaging with community organisations and schools across the United Kingdom.
Support
While our focus is education it is also important that we do not forget about today's military personnel.
Our Association has helped raise much needed funds for various military charities across the UK.
Remembering those who served and continue to serve.
Membership of the Ancre Somme Association Charity is open to all, there are no restrictions. All we ask of our membership is that they support the on-going study and research of the historical findings derived from the events preceding, surrounding and following the Battle of the Somme on the 1st July 1916, as well as all other subsequent conflicts, battles and wars.
Supporting Our Veterans

Soldier on Coffee Co was founded by a British Army veteran who served 10 years in the Irish Guards doing tours of both Iraq and Afghanistan.
In 2012, whilst on a foot patrol in Afghanistan, LCpl Phillips stood on an improvised explosive device resulting in the loss of both legs above the knee.
Veteran-Owned
If we cannot support our veterans then who will?
Latest News
Art of Healing Exhibition
by Gladys Fletcher
Some stories are too powerful to be told in words alone.
Born and raised outside Keady, Co. Armagh during the turbulent years of the Northern Ireland Troubles, Gladys Fletcher's life was changed forever on 31st August 1975, when her father, Joseph Reid, was murdered at the front door of the family home by the Provisional IRA. More than 50 years later, the pain of that loss remains with her family every day.
Following her retirement, Gladys rediscovered her love of painting. What began with landscapes and still life soon became something much more personal. She found herself compelled to paint scenes from her past, capturing the Loyal Orders, the Northern Ireland Troubles, and the landmarks of her adopted home in Belfast. Through her art, she has found a way to express memories, preserve history, and continue her own journey of healing.
In Gladys' own words: "I have no idea where this path will take me but at the moment I am enjoying and finding it all very therapeutic."
We invite you to experience this moving and deeply personal collection of artwork.
Art of Healing – Exhibition
Brownlow Courtyard, Lurgan
Saturday 22nd August – Friday 28th August
10:00am – 2:00pm daily
Evening visits available by appointment.
Phone: 02838 810109
Email:
info@asauk.org
Entrance by donation in aid of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial.
ASA Remembrance Seedbom
ASA Remembrance Seedbom contains an easy to establish mix of wildflowers perfect for bringing life to built-up areas, attracting pollinating insects and creating a living memorial to those who served.
SEED MIX: Flanders Poppy, Corn Marigold, Cornflower, Forget-Me-Not, Oxeye Daisy and, Red Campion.
UK NATIVE: % – 100%
PLANTING: Mar, Apr, May, Jun (grow this year) Aug, Sep, Oct (grow next year).
*(Contains only species found on the RHS Plants for Pollinators List)
Open and throw or drop the seedbom into areas that you want to create your living memorial. The seedbom like bare soil, natural light and to be kept damp whilst growing. Full instructions are included on inside of each seedbom sleeve.
The seedbom will biodegrade into the environment, leaving only plants behind.
The seedboms are assembled in the UK (the shell casings are made in the Netherlands, all other materials sourced in the UK). Starch based biodegradable and compostable shell, organic peat-free compost, native wildflower, FSC 100% recycled and recyclable glue free paperboard packaging.
Weight - 25 g
Size - 55 × 55 × 80 mm
Each seedbom will be shipped with either a Navy, Army or RAF pin badge.
* If you are outside the UK please check your countries rules on importing seeds.
