Magheramorne Orange lodge standards are dedicated

The standards, which are two separate gifts to the lodge, will lead members at this year’s Twelfth celebrations in Carrickfergus.

Brethren, Sir Knights and ladies paraded behind Magheramorne Silver Band and the two standards, as yet still unfurled, to Magheramorne Presbyterian Church.

The Union flag, to be known as the Jubilee Standard, was presented to the Magheramorne lodge by Councillor Mark McKinty in memory of his grandfather, the late William McKinty.

Speaking after the event, Cllr. McKinty, recently elected deputy mayor of Larne, spoke of a mixture of emotions on such a moving occasion.

“I am very proud to present this standard to the lodge in this jubilee year,” he said. “My grandfather was a dedicated member of the lodge, serving in all offices, and at district level.

“He also introduced me to Magheramorne Silver Band, who were on parade today behind the newly dedicated standards.”

The Ulster standard was presented to LOL 291 by Rab McConkey and James Paisley, who recently rejoined the lodge and have been instrumental in recent improvements to the Orange hall and active participants in local events run by the lodge and by Smithytown Cultural Association.

Pastor Alan Martin, from Belfast, dedicated the banners on behalf of LOL 291, in the presence of district officers and visitors from both the Orange and Black institutions, adding that they are a “fitting tribute, especially in this jubilee year”.