PICTURE GALLERY: City remembers the Somme
CROWDS have gathered in Belfast to pay their respects to those who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme.
A minute's silence was held to mark the 94th anniversary of the First World War battle.
More than 21,000 soldiers are believed to have died in northern France, with over 2,000 alone from the 36th (Ulster) Division.
Dozens of wreaths were laid on the cenotaph, including those
from members of the Royal Irish Regiment, the 36th (Ulster) Division Old Comrades Association, the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers Old Comrades Association, the Royal British Legion, the Orange Order, ex servicemen's associations and both the DUP and UUP.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was NIO minister Hugo Swire, Belfast Lord Mayor Pat Convery and Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of of Belfast, Dame Mary Peters.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Owen Paterson travelled to France to represent the British government at the annual Somme commemorations.
The Secretary of State said it was "a deeply moving experience" to remember the tens of thousands of men who died in this battle for their country and to see the war graves so meticulously maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
"Today I have the honour to lay wreaths at the memorials on behalf of the UK; it is with particular admiration that I reflect on the connection the people of Northern Ireland have with the Somme.
"I also admire the dedication of organisations such as the Somme Heritage Centre who work tirelessly to ensure future generations learn about the Battle of the Somme and help ensure that what happened here in 1916 is never forgotten," Mr Paterson said.
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Weather for Belfast
Sunday 12 February 2012
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Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
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