Communities praised for trouble free Twelfth and Thirteenth

The local area commander of the PSNI has also thanked communities for their co-operation in ensuring minimum disruption.

District Master David Martin told the ‘MAIL’: “On the Twelfth morning the weather was very kind to us and the morning parade in Lurgan passed off tremendously well.

“Keady was trouble free, though the field was a time for welly boots. Thankfully the good weather helped to dry it up a good bit.

“Those who looked after the field had it in tremendous shape.”

Mr Martin apologised to those who had to endure a long wait for the Orangemen to return.

He said: “On the way home three of the buses were re-routed the wrong direction so there was a long wait for Orangemen travelling to Lurgan.

“There was also a long wait for those who turned out to greet the return parade.

“The crowd was tremendous and not one of them left despite the wait. I’d like to acknowledge the large crowd who waited for us and gave us a warm reception on our return. We are indebted to them.”

He continued: “On the Thirteenth, the weather was even better. We saw an increased turn out from the Royal Black this year.

“They paraded Lurgan on Friday morning in glorious sunshine and it was absolutely beautiful when in Bangor.

“No problems were encountered on the return parade.”

Mr Martin concluded: “This year’s Twelfth and Thirteenth were a really enjoyable, really great occasion.

“I hope members of the public enjoyed it as much as we did. It was great to see such a good natured celebration pass without incident.”

He thank the PSNI for their co-operation in helping to organise the two days.

Craigavon Area Commander, Chief Inspector Anthony McNally, thanked all communities in Lurgan for their support in ensuring the main parading season passed off peacefully.

Chief Inspector McNally said: “The parades passed off successfully and residents demonstrated their respect for each other’s cultures and ensured that all events took place with minimum disruption.

“This shows what can be achieved when we work together and we will continue to build relationships and work with interested parties to continue to improve the quality of life for everyone in Lurgan and increase confidence in local policing.”