Before the meeting was opened a presentation was given by the Reverend Rodney Beacom. Those in attendance listened attentively as he spoke about his recently released film, Crossing the Line. Rev Beacom was thanked, by Lexi Davidson, for what was a very thought provoking presentation.

As the meeting commenced, the Chairman embraced the occasion to extend a warm welcome to our esteemed guests, newly inducted members, and existing members.

During the course of the meeting, the Chairman, Mark Jameson, took the opportunity to provide a retrospective overview of the charitable endeavours undertaken by the charity over the preceding twelve-month period.

These projects included the tree planting ceremony, in memory of Private Eva Martin, the launch of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial Fund, the charity's pilgrimage to the battlefields of France and Belgium, and the breakfast hosted on Behalf of AA Veterans Support.

He also highlighted the various talks that had been hosted by the charity. These including talks on the Border Cleansing, Col Frederick Crawford, the Killing Fields, Private Herbert Aspinall, Daugher Cemetery. 

In conclusion, the chairman expressed his sincere gratitude to Lexi Davidson for his unwavering dedication, the committee for their tireless efforts, and our esteemed members for their unwavering support and commitment.

"It is an immense privilege to serve as the Chairman of the Ancre Somme Association Charity, and if granted the opportunity to continue in this role, I assure you that I will discharge my duties with the utmost pride and dedication."

It was an honour for the charity to have Helen Wilson, Donaghcloney Royal British Legion, conduct their officer elections. All positions were successfully filled. Helen extended her best wishes to the newly elected committee for their future endeavours. The re-elected chairman, Mark Jameson, expressed his gratitude to Helen for conducting the officer elections and for her supportive remarks.

The Charity's treasurer, Gillian Bleakney, presented a comprehensive financial report. All members had access to the report. Gillian was recognised for her dedication and hard work not only to the charity but also to the Empire Poppy Store.

Words of encouragement were given by the Charity's UK Ambassador, Carla Lockhart MP. Ms Lockhart praised the commitment of the charities volunteers, and went on to say that she was proud to be associated with the charity. Carla ended by wishing the charity well over the next twelve months.

Greig Savage, ASA Educational Officer, presented the charity with a cheque for £350 in aid of the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial Fund. The Money was raised at recent event held in Lisnadill Primary School. Greig also presented the charity will presented the charity with a boxed ceremonial flag, on behalf of the Empire Poppy Store.

The chairman, Mark Jameson, was pleased to announce the appointment of David Brown as the chairman of Ancre Somme Association (England). David, a longstanding supporter of the Ancre Somme Association Charity, will contribute to the charity's growth in England. David and his wife Karen were acknowledged for their presence at the meeting.

As the meeting concluded, the chairman expressed gratitude for everyone's support. He emphasised the significance of the upcoming year for the charity and highlighted the collective responsibility to fulfill the charity's objectives of education, remembrance, and supporting our armed forces charities.