Shortfall in funds for Blue Plaque for noted doctor
One of the main speakers at the event was Philippa Robinson who has carried out extensive research into the life of the man she described as a medical doctor, a poet, an essayist and a anthropologist. Philippa remarked “I am glad that Dr Armattoe is getting the recognition that he richly deserves, and that this recognition helps mark our appreciation of the diversity that is in our community.”
The evening of short lectures, poetry readings and music was organised by the Holywell Trust’s City Walls Heritage Project funded by the heritage Lottery Fund and Trevor Temple of the Holywell Trust gave a short talk which set Dr Armattoe’s experience in the context of the contribution of other of immigrant communities to our city down through the years.
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Hide AdOne of the people who read extracts from Dr Armattoe’s writings and poetry was Kingsley Harrison Agoha , co-president of the Igbo Association of County Donegal and Kingsley explained the significance of having a Blue Plaque erected in Londonderry to a West African: “Dr Raphael Armattoe lived in Derry and left a lasting legacy for mankind, especially the Africans and other emigrants alike. We the new generations who migrated from Africa , can proudly and safely settle here and be part of this wonderful city of diverse cultural heritage.”
More information on Dr Armattoe can be found on http://www.ulsterbiography.co.uk/ Anyone wishing to help meet the shortfall on the Blue Plaque should contact Carol Wright at the Holywell Trust on 028 7126 1941.