Author: whatsonni

Derry dancers Maíre and Sarah to perform ‘Encounters’ across the city this weekend 

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Four public spaces in Derry will experience an unusual series of dance ‘Encounters’ this Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March, as part of the Match Make Project.

Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Match Make is an opportunity from Maiden Voyage Dance for dance artists based in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area to form new creative partnerships, encouraging collaboration across disciplines and inviting fresh ways of making and sharing dance with communities.

Emerging Derry dance artists Maíre Morrison and Sarah Flavelle began their piece ‘Encounters’ from creative conversations about human encounters and relationships, proposing a new duet exploring how brief interactions between people can shape connection and shared space.

During rehearsals the artists developed the duet through improvisation, partnerwork and choreographic exploration, collaborating with composer Caolán Austin, whose music shaped the atmosphere and rhythm of the work.

Looking forward to the performances, Nicola Curry, Artistic Director of Maiden Voyage Dance said:

“This year’s Match Make programme brings together an exciting group of artists whose collaborations span film, puppetry, voice and movement, reflecting the richness and diversity of contemporary practice.

We are very excited to see the culmination of  Maíre and Sarah’s artistic process with ‘Enounters’, a pop-up contemporary dance duet exploring the different ways in which we can coexist, interact and build relationships over time.

These short performances will invite passers-by to experience contemporary dance in everyday settings, bringing the work directly into the city and making it freely accessible to audiences.”

‘Encounters’ will be performed by Maíre Morrison and Sarah Flavelle on the following dates and times, and at the following locations:

Saturday 28th March – Guildhall Square at 2pm and Craft Village at 3.30pm.

Sunday 29th March – Brooke Park at 2pm and Ebrington Square 3.30pm.

The performances are free and booking is not required.

For further information on ‘Encounters’ and the Match Make programme, visit www.maidenvoyagedance.com

Bangor Castle to Welcome Antiques Roadshow

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BBC One’s Antiques Roadshow is coming to Bangor Castle this summer as part of filming for its 49th series. The much‑loved programme, presented by Fiona Bruce, will bring its team of expert valuers to the ground of the historic building on Sunday 26 July.

Visitors will have the opportunity to share their antiques, family heirlooms and vintage treasures with specialists covering jewellery, silver, ceramics, glass, pictures, rare books, clocks, watches, militaria and a wide range of collectable categories – from vintage fashion and furniture to film and music memorabilia.

As well as Bangor Castle the following locations will also feature in the upcoming series: Dartington Estate, near Totnes, Devon, Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Ilford, East London, Souter Lighthouse, South Tyneside and Caerphilly Castle, South Wales.

Presenter Fiona Bruce, who will be filming her nineteenth series of Antiques Roadshow, commented:

“Antiques Roadshow is gearing up to start filming a new series and every year I’m blown away by the variety and volume of objects shared with our team of specialists. There are always exciting moments of suspense and surprise when it comes to valuations as well as reassuring appearances of old favourites from diamond jewellery to fine china. I love meeting our visitors and hearing the personal stories behind their objects and we’ll be travelling around wonderful venues across the UK.”

Speaking ahead of the visit, Robert Murphy, Series Editor, said:
“The Roadshow is for everyone, and we’re looking forward to seeing those special items that mean something to our visitors. In recent years, we have seen a fantastic range of mementoes and treasures: ceramics by Picasso and paintings by Jack Vettriano, a medal for gallantry awarded to a pigeon, a rare Oasis demo tape and a cartoon by John Lennon, letters from poet Dylan Thomas, gold sovereigns and valuable watches by Omega and Patek Phillippe, a jewel-encrusted ballerina brooch valued at £40–£50,000, and items belonging to one of the founders of the SAS. We can’t wait to find out what treasures and surprises we’ll see at this year’s shows.”

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum welcomed the announcement, saying:
“We are delighted to host Antiques Roadshow at Bangor Castle. This is a fantastic opportunity for local people and visitors alike to showcase their treasured items in a beautiful and much‑loved setting. Bangor has a strong sense of community and heritage, and we look forward to welcoming the team and discovering the remarkable stories that will emerge.”

Free ticket applications are now open, with limited places available. Viewers can also submit items online for consideration.

For more information and to apply for tickets, visit www.bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow.

Watch Antiques Roadshow on BBC One on Sundays at 7pm and on BBC iPlayer.

For more information please contact: antiques.roadshow@bbc.co.uk

The ultimate spring family day out: Fibrus Family Race Day returns to Down Royal this April

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Down Royal Racecourse confirms Fibrus Broadband as headline sponsor of its popular Family Race Day, returning to Lisburn on Sunday 12th April 2026

Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement as the Fibrus Family Race Day returns to Down Royal on Sunday 12th April 2026. It’s set to be an action-packed fusion of racing and family entertainment, with headline sponsor Fibrus Broadband back to help transform Down Royal into the ultimate playground for racing fans and families alike.

Now firmly established as one of the most popular fixtures in Down Royal’s annual racing calendar, this year’s event promises another unforgettable day out for families across Northern Ireland, combining top-class National Hunt racing with a packed programme of family entertainment. From petting farm and pony rides to bouncy castles and face painting, the enclosure will ensure a magical day out for racegoers of every generation.

The pre-race excitement has already kicked off in local primary schools across Lisburn and Hillsborough with the “Design a Jockey Silk” competition. One lucky primary school pupil will see their artistic vision brought to life as a professionally manufactured silk displayed at the track on race day.

The continued partnership between Down Royal and Fibrus reflects a shared commitment to bringing communities together and inspiring the next generation of racing fans across the region.

Speaking of the return of Fibrus as headline sponsor, Dominic Kearns, Founder and CEO at Fibrus, said: “Fibrus are incredibly proud to be back as headline sponsor of the Fibrus Family Race Day for a third consecutive year. What started as an exciting new partnership has grown into something special – an event that genuinely brings communities together and creates lasting memories for families right across Northern Ireland.

“At Fibrus, connecting communities is at the heart of everything we do, and this race day captures that spirit perfectly. The atmosphere at Down Royal on Family Race Day is like nothing else, and we cannot wait to see families pouring through the gates again this April for what promises to be our best year yet.”

Chloe Ferris, Commercial Director at Down Royal Racecourse, added: “The Fibrus Family Race Day has grown year on year into one of the standout dates in our calendar here at Down Royal, and the enthusiasm from families across the region continues to blow us away each year. We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Fibrus back for a third year, their support has been instrumental in making this event the success it has become.

“With general admission, children under 14 can attend for free with a ticket-holding adult, making it outstanding value for families looking for a brilliant day out this spring. Whether you are a seasoned racing fan or bringing the kids to the track for the very first time, this is a day not to be missed.”

Gates open at 12pm on Sunday 12th April 2026. For full details and tickets visit //downroyal.com/.tickets.

The Fray Autumn Light Tour

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The Fray

Autumn Light Tour

National Stadium, Dublin – 12 November

Ulster Hall, Belfast – 13 November

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March

 

Following a triumphant, sold-out Telegraph Building show after a decade-long hiatus, The Fray have announced their return to play The National Stadium, Dublin on 12 November and Ulster Hall, Belfast on 13 November 2026.

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March at 10am from Ticketmaster.ie & www.ulsterhall.co.uk

The Fray had previously visited last November for the final dates of their How to Save a Life: 20th Anniversary Tour, which celebrated two decades of their iconic debut album. The multi-Platinum-selling band – composed of lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki – continues to captivate audiences with the emotional depth and cinematic sweep of their music.

Originally rising to prominence in the early 2000s, the Colorado-bred group introduced a uniquely soul-searching alt-rock sound—timeless yet inventive, arena-sized yet profoundly intimate. Over the years, The Fray has earned four GRAMMY Award nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, multiple Billboard Top 10 hits, and a deeply devoted global fanbase. Their breakout single, “How To Save A Life,” spent 58 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining anthem of ABC’s Emmy-winning series “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Praised by Rolling Stone for their “stick-in-your-head hooks and eloquent narratives” and by the Los Angeles Times for their “melodically rich” songwriting, The Fray’s 2005 debut album How to Save a Life is certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA and remains one of the best-selling digital debuts of all time. The band is currently working on new music, with additional releases planned in the coming months, following the recent launch of their latest single, “A Light That Waits.”

Connect with The Fray

Instagram / X / Website / Spotify

Local Support Highlighted for Debt Awareness Week in Causeway Coast and Glens

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Debt can affect anyone. Yet the shame people feel around it often prevents them from getting the support they need.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has partnered with Community Advice Causeway (CAC) during Debt Awareness Week (16–22 March 2026) to highlight the free, confidential support available through CAC’s Money and Debt Service. Funded by the Department for Communities and delivered in partnership with Advice NI, the Specialist Debt Team offers expert guidance to help people address and manage debt concerns.
Northern Ireland continues to face high levels of financial vulnerability, with many households affected by low wages, insecure work, rising energy and food costs, and limited access to savings. As a result, more people are turning to credit to make ends meet, often leading to unmanageable debt.
Encouraging anyone struggling financially to seek help, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, said:
“Many families and individuals across our Council area are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and financial worries can affect anyone at any stage of life.
“I would strongly encourage anyone concerned about debt or falling behind on bills to reach out to Community Advice Causeway. Their team offers free, confidential advice and guidance, helping people understand their options and take positive steps towards regaining control of their finances with confidence and reassurance.”
Samantha Boswell, Chief Officer of Community Advice Causeway, said:
“Debt can affect anyone, and too often people struggle in silence because they feel embarrassed or overwhelmed. Our message is simple: you are not alone, and help is available. Seeking advice at an early stage is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, protect your wellbeing, and achieve a positive outcome.
“Clients can self-refer easily by calling or visiting our website. Once a referral is made, our qualified specialist debt adviser will take time to understand their situation and work with them to find the best possible solution.
Advisers can help clients explore a range of options, including budgeting support, negotiating with creditors, arranging affordable repayment plans, or, where appropriate, assisting with formal debt solutions such as a Debt Relief Order (DRO) or Bankruptcy.”
To self-refer or find out more about the Money and Debt Advice Service, contact Community Advice Causeway by phone on 028 703 44817 or visit their website at https://advicecauseway.com.
Information about other UK Debt Charities and online help can be found at
www.moneyhelper.org.uk

10 Things to do in NI This Week!

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Here are ten exciting things to do 16 – 22 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish – the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views.
  2. St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 17 March. Savour mouth-watering food from local vendors, explore the charm of traditional Irish music and be part of the magic as the St Patrick’s Day parade winds through the streets, showcasing dazzling displays of colour, creativity, and culture. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Spring in Derry~Londonderry.
  3. St Patrick’s Day Parade, Belfast, 17 March. A dazzling display of costume, music, dance and circus will bring the streets of Belfast alive this St Patrick’s Day. The annual parade will weave its way through the city centre. With colourful live performance and a high energy soundtrack, this year’s parade will include some new elements to celebrate the legends of St Patrick.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 17 March. Join them for a family day filled with music, storytelling and hands-on activities that bring Ireland’s past to life. There’ll be traditional music performances and Irish dancing displays, plus folklore tales of legends and lore. Try Irish language taster sessions, sample colcannon and get hands-on with their family craft station.
  5. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Newry City, and St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. St Patrick’s Day parades will be the centre of celebrations in Newry City and Downpatrick. Led by Saint Patrick himself, the St Patrick’s Day parade will offer a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds.
  6. St Patrick’s Day Omagh: Music and Mythology, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. The streets of Omagh will come alive at this year’s St Patrick’s weekend with a vibrant celebration of music, mythology, dance and carnival parade. Delivered by Urban Events NI under the theme Music & Mythology, this year’s programme brings together an exciting blend of traditional musicians, dancers, performers and local groups to create an unforgettable festival experience.
  7. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. Enjoy a day of Irish heritage and celebration as you explore the history of the shamrock, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Irish music across Ulster and America. Watch Irish dance performances and see traditional craft demonstrations like basket weaving throughout the day. Stop by the Mellon House where the table will be filled with customary foods like colcannon and apple tart, taste samples of fruit brack and follow the ‘Shamrock Selfie Trail.’
  8. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 17 Match. From Castle to Castle, the traditional parade will snake through the heart of Enniskillen, crossing its iconic bridges and celebrating the unique geography of the island town. The celebrations continue with an extended free fun day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, featuring family entertainment, activities and special guest appearances throughout the early afternoon.
  9. Sunrise at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 March. What made Emain Macha so special to the ancient people of Ulster? Why was this site so steeped in history and wonder that it drew St Patrick to the area to build his first church? Celebrate St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster. This year bear witness, through drama, to the story of a bull which attempted to stop the building of Patrick’s church and participate in a ceremony by the sacred pool. Afterwards, have breakfast with them, to the sound of live music.
  10. Sperrins Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 20 –22 March. Sperrins Festival is a three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community, taking place across Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It aims to strengthen connections between people and place, support sustainable tourism, and provide new opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate the area’s rich and diverse heritage and culture.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this Mother’s Day weekend

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Antrim

This Mother’s Day, treat her to a 3 course Sunday feast at The Rabbit, served from 12pm – 5.30pm. Every mum will be welcomed with a special gift, because she deserves nothing less.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Storytelling, Fiddles and Stew at the Charlemont Arms Hotel is a charming event that combines the spoken word, good music and tasty food, all things Ireland is synonymous with. The Seancaithe (the Aged) and Scéalaí (the Narrator) were the bearers of Irish traditional stories. Important characters in Ireland’s cultural past, they passed the old stories down through the generations.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Michael Harrison in association with Cameron Mackintosh presents… A new production of Miss Saigon at the Grand Opera House, as Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical is reborn. The soaring score features hit songs including; The Heat is On in Saigon, The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream.

Find out more HERE

Down

Terry McHugh returns to Portico Ards with hilarious stories of childhood, parenthood & his expensive Lego obsession. Don’t miss this new Tour!

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a memorable lunch in the elegant surroundings of Corick House Hotel & Spa, where timeless charm meets warm hospitality.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join Heaney Home Place for Room to Rhyme! This is our weekly half hour session for parents and children aged 0-4. Little ones will get the opportunity to interact with others, develop listening and language skills, and have fun!

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Create a unique photo holder that can be gifted this Mother’s Day at Ranfurly House Dungannon. In this fun and creative one-hour workshop, ‘Claytastic Kids’ will guide participants through the art of 3D modelling, rolling, stretching, and colour mixing.  This workshop suitable for ages 6+.  All materials supplied.  Children will take home their own beautiful creation at the end of the workshop.

Find out more HERE

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Come and wish the Bishop’s Gate Hotel a happy 10th birthday with their special offer, starting from £179 per night. Enjoy bed and breakfast, a two-course dinner and raise a toast to this special occasion with a glass of prosecco on arrival to the Walled City. Offer is available for selected dates in March and April and must be booked by midnight, Tuesday 10th March. Visit www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com for more information. Please note, prices are from £179 midweek, Fridays from £199 and Saturday 7th March From £249.

 

 

Shipquay Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Spring into the city with Shipquay’s seasonal offer available now until 30th April. From only £179 per couple, enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of the city with a two-course evening meal in Shipquay restaurant, £20 hotel credit to personalise your stay, and a freshly cooked to order breakfast in the morning. Visit www.shipquayhotel.com for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 9 – 15 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Weekend at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 15 March. Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a fun-filled family day out with stories, music and celebration in honour of St. Patrick’s Day. Immerse yourself in the magic of traditional Irish storytelling with renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan, accompanied by the captivating music of Aodan MacSeafriadh.
  2. Homes In Focus: Tea Lane at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 14 March. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, for a talk on the Tea Lane Houses. Discover what life was like for those who lived here and explore the research happening behind the scenes. Originally located off Sandy Row in Belfast, the houses were built for workers in the nearby textile mills and brickfields in Sandy Row. They are believed to be amongst the earliest surviving examples of industrial housing in Belfast.
  3. Leprechaun Treasure Trail at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 14 – 17 March. Can you track down Montalto’s mischievous Leprechauns? Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fun-filled treasure trail style adventure through the beautiful Trails & Gardens at Montalto Estate.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 14 March. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the stunning gardens. Enjoy live music, Irish and Ulster-Scots dancing and plenty of family-friendly activities as the gardens come alive with the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.
  5. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival, Belfast, 13 – 17 March. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival returns with five days of concerts, workshops, dance, pipe bands and a free Festival Village in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, UNESCO City of Music. At the heart of the festival is a diverse, cross-cultural celebration of traditional arts in honour of St Patrick.
  6. Wild Caving at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 14 March. Delve off the beaten track with our experienced and qualified Cave Leader to explore “wild caving” in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves system. Your group of ten will explore wild cave passages, negotiate boulder chambers and clamber through the well-known flyover to emerge into the public tour area of the show cave before navigating your way out through the wild chambers.
  7. Walled City Music Festival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 12 – 15 March. Derry~Londonderry is set for a serious musical takeover this March as the Walled City Music Festival returns with a razor-sharp programme built for everyone – the seasoned concertgoer, the curious first timer, and anyone who simply wants to feel something live. Expect powerhouse piano, high-voltage violin and richly coloured chamber music, performed by world-class artists in the heart of the city.
  8. Ashes to Fashion at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 13 September. A collection reborn through significant acquisitions, a future-proof collecting policy and generous donations, making it one of the most important collections in Western Europe. ‘Ashes to Fashion’ marks this extraordinary milestone with a stunning showcase of fashion from the eighteenth century to today, from historic garments to contemporary pieces by Chanel and Versace.
  9. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
  10. Visit Gortin Glen Forest Park, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Gortin Glen Forest Park is made up of a network of 5 waymarked trails of varying lengths that start from the Trailhead close to the main car park. All trails are colour coded and return back to the car park. Each of the trails give the visitor the opportunity to enjoy the woodland, nestled nicely in the Sperrin Mountains.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

TITANIC BELFAST TO DISPLAY LIFEJACKET OF SURVIVOR AS PART OF NEW EXHIBITION

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TITANIC Belfast has welcomed an original lifejacket worn by a female survivor which will be on public display for a limited time.

The rare artefact is on loan from Wiltshire auction house Henry Aldridge and Sons, the world’s leading Titanic memorabilia auctioneers, until Sunday 5th April, before going to auction on 18th April. It was worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, who survived the tragic sinking of RMS Titanic alongside 11 other passengers in Lifeboat 1. A First-Class passenger, Laura Mabel was the secretary to fashion designer, Lady Lucy Duff Gordon. They were journeying to Chicago for business, accompanied by Lady Lucy’s husband, Sir Cosmo Duff Gordon.

The lifejacket bears the signature of Francatelli along with other survivors including leading fireman Charles Hendrickson, fireman George Taylor and able seaman James Horswill and is one of very few remaining original lifejackets that are identifiable to the person who wore it.

The artefact will form part of a wider free exhibition ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’, located on Level 1 Apex of the world-leading visitor attraction and will explore the stories of the women who travelled onboard Titanic including Helen Churchill Candee, Marjorie Anne Newell and Annie Clemmer Funk.

Eimear Kearney, Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “We are honoured to display the lifejacket worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, a survivor of RMS Titanic and celebrate the women who travelled onboard through our ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition. It offers a deeply personal connection to the story of Titanic and to one of its passengers, whose life was spared in the tragedy but irrevocably changed and shaped forever.

Displaying an artefact worn and signed by Laura Mabel allows us to tell a powerful story of survival, memory and legacy. We are thrilled to be able to give guests from around the world this added experience to view yet another rare piece of Titanic history.”

Andrew Aldridge, Managing Director of Henry Aldridge and Sons, said: “We are delighted to be able to place such a significant artefact on public display at Titanic Belfast ahead of its forthcoming auction. Exhibiting Laura Mabel Francatelli’s lifejacket in the city where Titanic was built offers visitors a unique opportunity to view this object of historical importance and find out more about the human story behind it.”

For further information on the ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition or to book tickets for the Titanic Experience, visit titanicbelfast.com

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