Praise for Twelfth and Thirteenth displays in Lurgan, Loughbrickland, Banbridge, Portadown and Scarva
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The Upper Bann representative believes that the region excelled over the past few days in terms of Orange Order and Royal Black Preceptory parades.
She said: “What a display of culture – Lurgan, Loughbrickland, Portadown, Scarva, Banbridge and every town and village in between excelled.
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Hide Ad“It was an honour to host the Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris at the Co Armagh parade in Lurgan. With over 50,000 spectators, 70 bands and hundreds of Orangemen he got a baptism of culture .
“We have had some very direct conversations with him in recent days about a perceived lack of understanding of Unionism and our culture. Yesterday was a great opportunity for him to see first hand the rich fabric of pageantry, colour and faith that makes our Twelfth of July so special.
“It is important that he continues to be receptive to both our concerns and aspirations as we move forward in Northern Ireland.”
She added: “Well done to Lurgan District Loyal Orange Lodge No 6 for an exceptional day. The day could not have happened without the super team of organisers. District Master David Martin and his officers went over and above when hosting this exceptional Twelfth demonstration.”
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Hide AdOf the Co Down Twelfth in Loughbrickland she said: “Thousands lined the streets, a great display of bands, lodges and Lambeg drums could be seen by all.
"A massive well done to all involved in the organisation – it was a great day out.”
And of the Thirteenth celebrations she said: “100,000 spectators, 75 bands, hundreds of men amongst the Black lodges descended on Scarva for an exceptional display of culture and pageantry. Well done to the superb RBP 1000 for organising another hugely successful day. It’s hard to believe but it is getting bigger and better every year.
“It was great to meet Lurgan Royal Black District Chapter No. 2 on their return parade from Bangor. As always exceptionally turned out with the Scottish links as strong as ever!