Jubilee parade in Ballymena on June 4

Pinch yourself when you spot Big Ben in Wellington Street or a New York Yellow Taxi pulling into Bridge Street, combine that with the distant drums of Africa or the spectacle of The Royal Pageant, keep an eye out for the Lough Ness Dragon – he might bite.

A parade for all of County Antrim, the Borough will welcome Mayors and floats from all over the county with special VIP Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant leading the Parade with Mayor of Ballymena Councillor Hubert Nicholl.

Music and lots of noise and fun will be the order of the day, with several local bands including Pipe Bands and Accordion Bands taking part and the many weird and wonderful floats and vehicles from groups as diverse as Young Farmers to Sea Cadets.

Many groups will also take part on foot for the 3 mile route, from Brownies and Guides to Clowns and Beefeaters. When the Parade screeches in to Ballymena Showgrounds the Lord Lieutenant and Mayor of Ballymena will judge all parade entries. Prizes include cups and trophies and all participants will be presented with a Diamond Jubilee medal.

Come along, bring a picnic and get a good spot on the route to view the parade – you would be mad to miss it.

Deadline for final call for participants – Friday 25th May 2012 – for an application pack contact The Braid on 028 25 635900

Route: Ballee Playing Fields, Queen Street, over Harryville Bridge, past McDonalds, Linenhall Street, Bridge Street past The Braid, Mill Street, Wellington Street, Ballymoney Street, Thomas Street, past Fairhill Centre, Warden Street, Ballymena Showgrounds.

Programme: Parade assembles Ballee, tour through town centre; assemble in Showgrounds around Main Pitch for judging of Floats, Awards Ceremony, Lunch and entertainment.