Holywood Library was the setting on Friday 30th January 2015 for a celebration of Holywood’s Ulster-Scots heritage, which provided the venue for the launch of a Holywood and the Ulster-Scots Pamphlet.

The event hosted by North Down Borough Council, The Ulster-Scots Agency and supported by local Councillors saw a mix of music, dance and history take those in attendance through the culture and influences of the Ulster-Scots on shaping the local area. Music was supplied by Iain Carlisle and Matthew Warwick from the popular traditional group the “Risin Stour”, whilst Piper Alan McCormick accompanied dancer Michelle Johnston through some energetic Scots dance.

Spectators included MLA’s, Mayor of North Down, Councillors, members of local residents and community groups, businesses and schools. They were given a “potted history” by Ulster-Scots historian Mark Thompson, of the role of the Ulster-Scots in the development of the area and where these influences are still seen today such as in architecture and place names. Mr Nelson McCausland MLA then carried out an address to the haggis to conclude the very successful event.

The event saw the launch of an historical pamphlet detailing the Ulster-Scots history of Holywood. This free pamphlet can be picked up from local information points across North Down including Holywood Library and Bangor Visitor Information Centre or downloaded from www.northdowntourism.com In addition, Holywood Library is also currently hosting an Ulster-Scots exhibition which will be present until the end of February.

North Down DUP Councillor Stephen Dunne has warmly welcomed the publication of an 'Ulster-Scots' Heritage pamphlet in Holywood. The local Councillor added:

"I was delighted to play some part in the publication and production of this 'Ulster-Scots in Holywood' pamphlet and I would like to commend the input from both North Down Borough Council and the UIster Scots Agency in supporting this production. Holywood has a very rich and proud Ulster-Scots history and heritage and I believe this publication will help to tell that story for many years to come, many of whom have not yet heard this colourful story.”

L-R Gordon Dunne MLA, Nelson McCausland MLA, William Humphrey MLA, Peter Weir MLA and Cllr Stephen Dunne with Ian Carlisle and Matthew Warwick from 'Risin Stour'