Loyalist band aims to cause minimal disruption in Magherafelt

For the first time Ballymoughan Purple Guards will start and finish in Rainey Street car park in the town.

It follows the redevelopment of the local high school and the loss of the lay-by where the parade had previously assembled.

This is the 34th parade and fundraiser for the band which hopes to attract around 35 bands from across the Province.

“We hope to cause minimal disruption to town traffic and hopefully run an enjoyable night for all those involved,” said a band spokesperson.

“We are hoping for a successful night, ever mindful of the good reputation of our local businesses and community.”

The parade will start around 8.45pm making its way along Rainey Street, Westland Road, Moneymore Road, Queen’s Avenue, Ballyronan Road, Broad Street and back to Rainey Street car park, finishing at 11pm.

The spokesperson added that they had worked with the PSNI and local politicians in arranging the event.

DUP Councillor Paul McLean congratulated Ballymoughan on its “forward thinking.”

“The band wants to minimise disruption to traffic and the local community and they are to be congratulated on this strategy,” he said.