Braid parade: UKIP Orangeman to speak

Broughshane will play host to this year’s Braid Twelfth where 11 lodges will be accompanied by nine bands and a number of Lambeg drums.

Host lodge, Jamisons True Blues Skerry LOL 532, have the honour of leading the procession this year. Ballygelly LOL 1098 will also have their new banner on parade.

The main parade will start at 12 noon from Tullymore Road, proceeding through the village to Beechvale, before returning to the local community centre for the religious service.

Guest speaker was to have been Ulster Unionist MP, Tom Elliott but due to an unavoidable change in circumstances, his role wil be taken by the UK Independence Party Councillor in South Belfast, Bob Stoker. It is thought that Cllr. Stoker may be the first member of UKIP to address an Orange demonstration.

The service will be officiated by Rev Dr Paul Reid, Deputy County Grand Chaplain. for County Antrim.

Part of the proceedings will include a trophy presentation for the best turned out lodge and best band on the day.

A traditional drum off between the Lambegs is also expected to take place attracting a large audience. Interest in the instrument remains very strong in the north Antrim area. Broughshane Pipe Band will also entertain the assembled crowd.