Independents for Armoy this Twelfth

MEMBERS of the Independent Orange Order will re-write the history books this Twelfth by staging the annual demonstration in Armoy.

The last time the Order was in the village was in 1976 some 34 years ago and according to the District Master of Ballycastle, Tommy Henry,bandsmen and Lodge members are looking forward to the return.

This year it was the turn of Ballycastle district to organise the event and the last time this was the case, brethren decided plumped for Portrush where Mr. Henry says they had a great time.

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However, the Co. Londonderry demonstration is taking place there this year ruling out the Independents.

“We’re more than happy with Armoy. I certainly recall us being there in 1976 and I know we were there before that, but I can’t tell you the exact date,” Mr. Henry said.

The Order will use a field on the Gracehill Road as both the assembly point and for platform speeches.

“This will facilitate everyone. We’ll form up and parade around the village and then return for the speeches to the same field which will remove the need to organise extra toilets etc,” Mr. Henry added.

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North Antrim MP, Rev. Ian Paisley, is a familiar figure at the Independent Twelfth, but it’s too early to say whether he will be present this year.

However, the village is certain to be the focus of the Northern Ireland media who always feature this demonstration.

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