The Ulster History Circle joined with Carrickfergus Borough Council to celebrate the life and achievements of two Carrickfergus men who had the distinction of winning the Victoria Cross. The unveiling of the Circle's Blue Plaque at the site of James Crichton's former home on the Woodburn Road was followed by the unveiling of two panels in the town's Museum and Civic Centre, one to James Crichton and the other to Daniel Cambridge who had received his VC at its first ceremeony in 1857, having served in the Crimean war, where he won his award.

The Crichton Plaque was sponsored by Edward McBrien of Weston Engineering, on whose premises the plaque was erected. Mr McBrien was represented by his Manager, James Ross. The Royal British Legion was well represented by Ernie Scott, Chairman SE Antrim District, George Horner, President of Carrickfergus District, Alan Hamilton - also Vice Chairman of the Borough Council (who played the Last Post) and William Hamill, Chairman of the Council. The Mayor, David Hilditch, Deputy Mayor Eric Ferguson, Councillor Isobel Day and Helen Rankin were present. Helen Rankin delivered the address at the unveiling of the commemorative panels in the Museum.

There were many members of James Crichton's family at the ceremonies. These included Catherine and John Ogilby, Mary McFall and her friend Patricia Dalzell, Margaret Patterson, Rita Howes and George and Meta Robinson.

From the Ulster History Circle were Doreen Corcoran (Chairperson), James Hawthorne, Jim Crawford, Victor Price and Patrick Devlin. Doreen introduced the family and spoke of the life and work of James Bell Crichton, reading out the citation of his award. (This is reproduced in the short biography of James Bell Crichton on this site)

The photos give a flavour of the event.