Work Commences on New Dromara Destroyers Tribute Garden

August 9, 2018

On Tuesday 7 August motorbike enthusiasts and riders from both the local area and farther afield took part in the now annual Dromara Destroyers ‘Ride Out’ which saw over 200 motorbikes leave the village of Dromara and drive to the Dundrod Grand Prix Circuit.

Local racing legends the Dromara Destroyers quartet of Brian Reid, Ray McCullough, Trevor Steele and Ian McGregor were there to lead off the  riders and send them on their way to Dundrod. The event jointly organised with MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix is an excellent opportunity for riders to ride around the Ulster Grand Prix circuit safely and in advance of the main races at the weekend. Visitors to Dromara were also able to view progress on the work to the upcoming ‘Dromara Destroyers Tribute Garden’. This new attraction will celebrate the success of the Dromara Destroyers and honour the four riders who managed to achieve so much in their racing careers.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is pleased to be supporting the development of the Tribute Garden, which is being delivered with additional funding support from the NI Rural Development Programme through Lagan Rural Partnership along with a contribution from the successful fundraiser vising carried out by the Dromara Destroyers Committee over the years. As many people know the Destroyers Committee has worked hard to bring the project to reality. In the past year they have worked closely with council officers to secure all the required funding to make it possible. The new garden will include four bronzed busts of the Destroyers, new seating and lighting and is due for completion in September 2018.

Alderman William Leathem, Chair of the Council’s Development Committee commenting on the new garden, said: “We are certainly all looking forward to seeing the completed work and hope that many people will visit this new attraction in the centre of Dromara in recognition of the success of the Dromara Destroyers but also to celebrate the success of the wider motorbike fraternity from Dromara and the surrounding areas.” Alderman

Allan Ewart MBE, Chair of Lagan Rural Partnership, added: “It is a pleasure to be here to see the fantastic support for this ride out event and hear how interested everyone is in the development of the new Dromara Destroyers Tribute Garden. This project will really add something special to the centre of Dromara village and the surrounding rural community celebrating their support for these riders and the wider biking fraternity over the years.”