Bright Day for Black Parade!
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
UP to 10,000 members of the Royal Black Institution descended on Ballyclare last Saturday (30th August) to take part in the institution's local 'Last Saturday' of August march.
Local members were joined by their fellow Co. Antrim compatriots and Ballyclare District had the privilege of leading the parade, followed by Lisburn, Ballymena, Antrim, Larne and Ballymoney.
Going against the current August trend for wet weather, it remained mostly dry throughout the day and the men, as well as the hundreds of spectators from all over Northern Ireland, Southern Ireland and Scotland and England who turned out to watch them, even enjoyed a few rays of sunshine!
The parade got under way from Foundry Lane at 12.30 p.m., where the Sir Knight of Co. Antrim had assembled everyone for the off, and made its way down the Rashee Road, Charles Drive, Ballyeaston Road, The Square, Main Street and Mill Road before making its way into Sixmilewater Park where the demonstration was held.
A religious service was also held during the demonstration in the park, which was conducted by Rev. David McCarthy and the Rev. S.R. McKay. The Resolutions of faith, loyalty and constitutional were also professed by the Country Grand Master and seconded by the Deputy County Grand Master.
Speaking to the Gazette afterwards, Co. Grand Master Vencil Crymble said he was delighted with how the day had went.
Mr Crymble said: "The day went very, very well, the crowds were excellent and there was great turnouts within our own preceptories. All in all, it was a very enjoyable day.
“The planning for this event has been ongoing for quite a few months now and I am glad that we were able to enjoy some good weather and that all our plans were able to run so smoothly.
“I would like to thank Newtownabbey Borough Council for their assistance and preparation of the park after the recent wet weather and all the traders who supported us. The District also appreciates the assistance given to them by the local P.S.N.I., in particular traffic control, and Translink for bus parking arrangements."
Indeed Saturday was a great success in the eyes of everyone who was in attendance. One local woman who brought her grandchildren down to watch the parade told me: "We have all had a great day and the children have really enjoyed themselves. It really has been first class and credit has to go to all those who were involved in the preparation as they have done a great job.
“It is wonderful to see events like this taking place in Ballyclare and the turnout today just goes to show how much support there is for it from the local people. It is also nice for local businesses as well as it gives them a wee boost too with the extra visitors to the town."
During the day street a street collection was also held in aid of Diabetes UK/Research NI. This is the nominated charity this year of the Royal Black Institution and collections for this will be ongoing. All support towards this appeal is very welcome.
At the time of going to press, the final figure from Saturday's street collection had yet to be ascertained, however keep an eye out in the Gazette for the total as and when it is announced.
