Bunting project inspires hope

Thousands of flags have been put up at the west Belfast interface at Lanark Way, but there are no political emblems in sight - these are flags for peace.

Monday, 08 August 2011
Bunting project inspires hope

Thousands of flags have been put up at the west Belfast interface at Lanark Way, but there are no political emblems in sight - these are flags for peace.

It is hoped the line of bunting which stretches between the Shankill and Springfield Roads will set a new world record, as the longest line of flags in the world.

Flags have come from across the city, Northern Ireland and even further afield with some from New York and Australia.

Each is emblazoned with positive messages for the divided community, said Belfast Flags organiser Raymond Watson.

"Ten thousand flags would make a line of bunting a mile and a half long, which was a goal which would set a world record for the longest line of bunting.

"But the more important thing was the opportunity of everybody to participate, express themselves through art and say something about their wishes for a brighter future."

The project is in memory of Thomas Devlin, the 15-year-old schoolboy who was murdered six years ago close to his Belfast home.

Thomas's mum, Penny Holloway, said the Devlin family wanted to get involved with a project that would leave a positive legacy for Thomas's memory.

"Thomas's death is still very difficult, but we wanted to see something come out of it, wanted to listen to people of Thomas's age and the future they want for themselves.

"I think Thomas would be highly entertained and bemused. He was very into art and I think he would've enjoyed it. If he was here, I think he would've participated in making the flags."

Baroness May Blood and community leader Tommy Holland acted as official verifiers for the world record, and both welcomed the project.

"When you think about Belfast and how hung up we are on flags, isn't this a wonderful new way to express it?" said Baronness Blood.

"Lanark Way for many years was a bone of contention and we're joining together a sentiment echoed in many of the flags. It's a wonderful message to send out to visitors."

Mr Holland felt the flags were a fitting tribute to Thomas.

"I would like to see thousands of flags like this across very interface, from the Village, right through the Shankill to Upper Springfield.

"Some people say you can't pick a favourite, I actually have one - there's one that's made of grass, with flowers on it.

"It's fantastic, but they're all individual flags of peace, hope and of a better future. One of them says 'love life and let's have a better life' and that's the message we need to get across."

Thanks U.TV

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News & Politics

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• Belfast
• Peace
• Flags