Work has begun to create a new ‘Book of Honour’ commemorating those from the Ards and North Down Boroughs who lost their lives in the Second World War.
The book, which is being compiled by Bangor man Barry Niblock, with financial support from both Ards and North Down Borough Councils, will not only list those who died, but also, where possible, provide biographical details and photographs of the servicemen, servicewomen, nursing personnel and civilians who lost their lives on active service or as a result of enemy action between 1939 and 1945. 
Research to date indicates that more than 650 people from the two areas will be commemorated in the volume, as Barry explained: “In 2011 I compiled two Books of Honour commemorating more than 1,250 people from the Ards and North Down Boroughs who lost their lives in the First World War. All were men and most were Army casualties. During the Second World War both men and women from the two Boroughs lost their lives and a great many of the casualties served with the Air Force. With just 20 years between the two world wars it is inevitable that many local families experienced bereavement during each of the conflicts. My Second World War Book of Honour will complement the two First World War books and pay tribute to the men and women who died.
“In 2014 we not only mark the centenary of the beginning of the First World War, but also the 75th anniversary of the Second World War and so this is a very fitting time to be publishing a book which will honour all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in that conflict,” said Mayor of Ards, Councillor Stephen McIlveen. “I am delighted that Ards Borough Council is able to offer its support to what will be an important historical reference point for generations to come and I look forward to reading the finished book”.
Councillor Andrew Muir, Mayor of North Down added: “Through this very valuable book we will receive an intensely personal insight into the Second World War, as the individual stories told show how many local people were affected by this terrible conflict. I would commend Barry for his dedication in producing this very valuable record and the rigorous research he undertakes to ensure the information included is accurate and complete. I am sure, like his previous books about World War I, it will be widely and thoughtfully read.” The book is expected to be in print by mid-September this year and will be available to purchase from local outlets.
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