Belfast: What does the seahorse have to do with with the city?

It has featured on coins, hotels and crests - but why is the seahorse linked to Belfast?

The earliest known use of a seahorse in Belfast was not in the water but on coins.Kirsty Mairs, a tour guide and collections assistant at Belfast City Hall, said the tokens are the earliest example of the symbol.

"The seahorse is originally a symbol of good fortune and protection, which is important for those travelling by boat or ship," Ms Mairs said. One of the more prominent seahorses visible in Belfast hangs high on one of its tallest buildings, the Grand Central Hotel. "We wanted to bring the history of the city into the hotel and remind tourists and visitors about the maritime history of this place, and the seahorse is a big part of that," he said.

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