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Review from local History Presentation to U3A at Ecos Conference Centre Ballymena (February 2024)
“Alastair attended the U3A (University of the 3rd Age) Ballymena Group to provide a talk on the history and growth of Ballymena from the 1500's – to modern times.
His talk was accompanied by a slide show which brought his words to life as the members could see and identify the buildings, churches and graveyards that he was providing the history of.
His speech was exceptionally informative, and the audience was captivated by the details and history he provided.
Around 90 members were in attendance, and many provided feedback on this talk, and I have to say that all were very pleased with both Alastair style of presentation, and the content of his talk.
The feedback we got was great, and everybody enjoyed it immensely. U3A will be inviting Alastair back as a guest speaker for further events.”
Brigit Killough U3A Ballymena
“Congratulations to Stephen McCracken and Alastair Donaghy for a wonderful tour incorporating the history of Ballymena and the 1798 Rebellion by the United Irishmen. Well done for hosting the tour and guiding us so well”
Roy
“A thoroughly enjoyable and informative tour around Ballymena town centre to learn of the town’s historical origins and development from its earliest Gaelic beginnings, its development through the Plantation period and on to its part in the 1798 Rebellion. Guides were both excellent providing fantastic historical context, insights and details - it’s a must for anyone interested in local history, the 1798 Rebellion and the role of the United Irishmen in Co. Antrim”
Sean
“The walk and talk given by Alastair Donaghy & Stephen McCracken in Ballymena was totally top notch. They delivered lot of information with both light humour and an eye for the telling detail. They both did a totally fab job. I highly recommend going on one of their talks if you get the chance”
Sharon Oddie Brown (Writer & Researcher Vancouver Canada)
Testimonials
Testimonials are for recent Walking Tours of Ballymena delivered in partnership with Stephen McCracken and Ulster Walking Tours
“Great stuff. Really enjoyed it. Born and bred in Ballymena but I found out stuff today that I never knew. Loved the seeding of the USA independence and anti-slavery that came from this wee town”
Stuart
“Thoroughly enjoyed this tour, a good mix of commentary and locations by Alastair Donaghy and Stephen McCracken, would highly recommend”
Peter
“Jean and I really loved the walking tour Alastair Donaghy Walks and Talks - she was 100 years old last Thursday and you told her a thing or two she didn't know before!”
Kathryn