Long Kesh Republican Prisoner Leather Belt

Long Kesh opened in August 1971 and finally closed it's doors on September 29th 2000.It had the capacity to detain 10,000 Republican and Unionist prisoners.Both sides were given access to tools and lathes to produce small and often elaborate pieces of furniture and leather goods..such as belts and wallets..These are treasured items and seldom come to the market.This is a 42 inch hand crafted leather belt with intricate hand tooling of celtic iconography..and some writing.The piece is just over one inch wide and will fit a 36 inch waist on the last notch..(there is room for another punch hole).."Saoirse 2000" would refer to the freedom in 2000 from Long Kesh..and the Martyers obviously referring to the hunger strikers who sadly lost their lives..The name Tommy next to it may refer to Thomas Mc Elwee who died on hunger strike on August 8th 1981..possibly Tommy Mc Kearney who was over 50 days on hunger strike 1n 1980..he survived as the strike was called off..It could indeed be the first name of the prisoner that made the belt..It is a fabulous piece of workmanship and it is still in very wearable condition..I will include registered post in the asking price.Thanks for looking please check out my other ads.