Titanic exhibition is so popular its run is extended

Exhibition director and collector Sean Szmalc has travelled the world with his collection of artefacts from the tragic 1912 voyage from Southampton to New York.

First sailing into the Niorth Ayrshire Heritage Centre in Saltcoats at the end of December, his exhibition ‘Titanic Honour & Glory’ has been a huge hit since then, with sell-out family days during the Easter break.

So much so, that the exhibition – originally due to wrap up last weekend – has now been extended until the end of May.

Inside the exhibition (Image: NAC)

North Ayrshire Council’s Heritage team is now urging local residents and visitors to take the chance to come along to see the incredible collection for themselves between now and Wednesday, May 31.

Over the past 30 years, the exhibition director Sean has dedicated his life to studying the RMS Titanic, the luxury steamship which sank on its maiden voyage in the early hours of April, 15 1912, after colliding with an iceberg.

Maria's brooch (Image: NAC)

Of the 2,240 crew and passengers on board, more than 1,500 lost their lives in the disaster and the fascinating exhibition pays homage to them and some of the fortunate survivors.

Council Leader Marie Burns said: “This April saw the 111th anniversary of the Titanic tragedy.

“With free exhibition entry, everyone is welcome to explore the legacy of this important period in history and discover some of the amazing artefacts on display from the unforgettable story of the tragic liner.

“From heroes and moments captured in time, to the tragic sacrifices made and the incredible tales of survival, we are incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to display this unique collection.

“Once again, I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet had the chance to go along, to take the time to experience this must-see exhibition.”

Steiff bear that belonged to Stirling born engineer William Young Moyes, who perished aged 24. (Image: NAC)

The unforgettable exhibition includes: a letter written on the board of the ship, a nightgown worn by a survivor, and memorabilia from the 1997 film including costumes worn by Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio.

There are also beautiful White Star Line dinner plates of the kind that would have been used by first class passengers, personal belongings of Titanic’s passengers and crew, rare glimpses of the liner’s luxury interior and the famous dazzling ‘Heart of the Ocean’ necklace from James Cameron’s iconic blockbuster film.

You can see the amazing exhibits at the Heritage Centre in Manse Street, Saltcoats on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm – 4.30pm.

Usually the Heritage Centre is open on the last Saturday of every month but for this exhibition, NAC has extended the hours to be open every Saturday from 9.30am - 1pm and 2pm until 4.30pm between now and th