Appeal for calm ahead of Battle of the Somme parade

Last week, the Parades Commission ruled that marchers would not pass the spot where the 49-year-old Catholic father-of-four, Kevin McDaid, was murdered in a sectarian attack last May.

On Monday, Killowen LOL 930, which organises the annual parade, issued a statement calling for young people in particular not to be drawn into any violence or anti-social behaviour.

"The officers and brethren of Killowen L.O.L. 930 would appeal to all those taking part in the parade, all spectators and supporters not to do anything that would bring discredit or disgrace upon our annual commemoration of The Battle of The Somme," the statement said.

"We appeal, especially to young people, not to be drawn into any situation that could cause conflict."

Local police have also called for calm in the Killowen area after two groups had to be separated by officers as flags were removed on Saturday evening.

On Monday, the PSNI said that they are currently working with community representatives from both sides in relation to the flying of flags in the Killowen area.

A spokesman said:" The issue of flags is a very emotive one, and police in Coleraine are working tirelessly with interested parties, local representatives and the local community, to try to find a solution that accommodates everyone in the community.

"This is not a policing problem alone, and police are appealing to every member of the community to work with them to resolve these issues and ensure that tensions are eased and calm maintained."

Speaking about Thursday's parade, DUP councillor Maurice Bradley said: "In making their determination, the Parades Commission made heavy work of their assumption that there has been no dialogue since last year.

"I appeal to all concerned to realise that this is a parade of remembrance for all who lost their lives at the Battle of the Somme in particular and all other theatres of war in general.

"Those taking part should parade with diginty and respect, no matter what, if any provocation comes their way.

"The parade will be under the guidance of trained marshals, backed up if necessary by the PSNI and I suggest the marshals should be given credit for the task they have voluntarily undertaken and respect to get on with their job of ensuring a peaceful, dignified and successsful parade."