Book Launch – Victorian & the Veldt: The London Irish Rifles 1859–1902

Carla Lockhart MP • May 20, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, is encouraging local history enthusiasts and members of the public to attend the official launch of a remarkable new book, Victorian and the Veldt, authored by Lt Col Ant Maher.

The book launch will take place on Thursday 29 May 2025 at 7:30pm in Brownlow Courtyard, and promises to be a memorable evening dedicated to history, remembrance, and storytelling.


Commenting, Carla Lockhart MP said:


“I’ve just started reading my copy of Victorian and the Veldt by my good friend Lt Col Ant Maher, and I honestly can’t recommend it highly enough. Ant is someone I greatly admire – not only for his military service, but for the passion and dedication he brings to remembrance and preserving our shared history.”


“This book is incredibly special. It’s the first time the story of the Victorian-era London Irish Rifles has been told, with a particular focus on the South African campaign from 1900 to 1902. It goes beyond regimental history to capture personal stories, fascinating details, and never-before-seen photographs that truly bring this era to life.”


“I’d love to see as many people as possible come out to support this event. Whether you’re a military history enthusiast, a supporter of heritage work, or simply someone who enjoys a story well told, this evening will have something for you.”


Event Details:


  • Date: Thursday 29 May 2025
  • Time: 7:30pm
  • Venue: Brownlow Courtyard
  • Admission: Free (Voluntary donations on the night will support the Northern Ireland Purple Poppy Memorial)



Seats are limited, so early registration is encouraged.


Register here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/book-launch-victorian-and-the-veldt-the-london-irish-rifles-tickets-1331499533949


The event is supported by the Ancre Somme Association Charity NI and Empire Poppy Store.


Share

By Carla Lockhart MP November 5, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart joined with members of Banbridge Free Presbyterian Church and the wider community at a Coffee Morning on Saturday, organised by Mrs June McComb.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 5, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the work and community spirit of Banbridge Rugby Club, following her visit to the club’s Big Breakfast on Saturday morning. 
By Carla Lockhart MP November 5, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising Porter’s Fine Furnishings, Banbridge, as the family-run business celebrates an incredible 75 years in operation.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 5, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the pupils and staff of Gilford Primary School following a visit to judge the school’s scarecrow competition. Each class designed and built their own scarecrow for the school’s community garden, with entries reflecting a wonderful mix of imagination, colour, and fun.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 4, 2025
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has raised serious concerns about Avian Influenza and is calling for DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, and chief vet Brian Dooher, to introduce a mandatory housing order for poultry flocks across Northern Ireland.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 3, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed confirmation from the Prime Minister that the Government will meet with the families of those who lost their lives in the 1994 Chinook helicopter crash on the Mull of Kintyre, which claimed the lives of 29 senior security and intelligence personnel alongside the dedicated RAF crew.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 30, 2025
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP, has described the Ulster Farmers’ Union’s vote of no confidence in DAERA as a momentous and damning indictment of Minister Muir and his department’s total failure to stand with, and support farming and rural communities in Northern Ireland.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 30, 2025
Reports that brand new all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and GPS units will be lawfully required to carry forensic markings, has been described by Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart as an important step forward in the fight against rural crime and farm thefts.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 30, 2025
A recent Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) decision to uphold a complaint against an old Red Tractor advert has been branded as misguided and unjust by Upper Bann MP CarlaLockhart.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 30, 2025
Debate urges government to engage with farmers over ‘tax heist’