Prison Heritage Opens-up

An historic prison-linked building will be open to the public later this month.

The Northern Ireland Prison Service College in Millisle swings open its gates on September 12 and 13 as part of the European Heritage Open Day weekend.

Members of the public will have a chance to view a superb collection of artefacts in the Prison Service Museum at historic Woburn House.

The museum houses an impressive collection dating back to the early 19th century.

And they may even spy some of the famous ghosts of Woburn House, featured in BBC NI's Northern Ireland's Greatest Haunts, which was broadcast earlier this year and repeated during the summer.

Of particular interest in the museum are the many illicit items (including handmade weapons and escape gear) made by loyalist and republican inmates at the Maze Prison during the 1970s and 1980s.

In addition, the public will be able to look around the downstairs of the fascinating old house, including the family ballroom which has been converted into a conference room.

Museum curator Bob Pue has also put together a special exhibition tracing the history of Woburn House, which was owned by the Dunbar family.

The exhibition will contain dozens of photographs of the estate and plans of the private residence before it was taken over by the Government and converted into a borstal in the 1950s.

Mr Pue said: "We are already receiving lot of interest from people wanting to visit Woburn House this weekend.

"The building has a fascinating history and of course a few ghosts to uncover. And I think the public will be interested in the treasure trove of items on display in the museum."

The tour of the building will take place every half hour from 10am, with the last tour beginning at 3pm each day.

There will be a maximum of 15 people on each tour so advanced booking is essential.

Anyone wishing to visit should contact the Prison Service College on 028 91 863028.

The European Heritage Open Day weekend provides a unique opportunity to see Northern Ireland’s finest historic buildings free of charge.

(BMcC/KMcA)