The anniversary and the event itself bears particular significance for Cllr Lowry as her great great uncle, Corporal Edward Louden Barnes of the 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, was killed in action at the Somme on 28 September 1918 at the age of 22. He was awarded the Military Medal.

Councillor Lowry said: “It is vital that we continue to remember the ultimate sacrifice made by those thousands of young men from both the 36th Ulster and 16th Irish divisions, and do so in a way that’s as respectful and inclusive as possible.

“With my family’s personal connection to the Battle, I felt even prouder to have attended this event in honour of their memory.

“Those who are not aware of their history are doomed to repeat it. That’s why it’s absolutely essential that we regularly look back on the historical events of World War I and II, both in commemoration of those who selflessly gave their lives, and with a mindfulness to ensure mistakes of the past are not repeated and such slaughter is never seen again.”