Commemorative parade to mark the 45th anniversary of Thomas McElwee

Thomas McElwee, who died after 62 days on Hunger Strike.

placeholder image — Thomas McElwee, who died after 62 days on Hunger Strike.

Bellaghy man Thomas McElwee, at 23 years of age, was the youngest of the hunger strikers

A commemorative parade will take place in Bellaghy on Sunday, August 9 to mark the 45th anniversary of Óglach Thomas McElwee, who gave his life after 62 days on Hunger Strike.

Speaking ahead of the event, Sinn Féin Councillor Ian Milne said: “Forty‑five years on, the courage and dedication shown by Thomas, the youngest of the hunger strikers at just 23, and his comrades continues to inspire us as we work towards a new and united Ireland.

“The parade will assemble at 12pm outside the Bawn and will include participants in the 12km Freedom Run before making its way to Thomas’s graveside, where Emma Sheerin MLA will deliver the main oration reflecting on his life, legacy, and the enduring impact of his sacrifice on the generations that followed.

“I encourage everyone to attend.”