New arch unveiled

A NEW arch was unveiled in Waringstown last week, just in time for the County Down Twelfth celebrations which take place in the village in a matter of days.
By The Newsroom
Published 5th Jul 2010, 11:56 BST
Updated 6th Jul 2010, 18:06 BST

The arch was bought from Edenderry and refurbished by LOL 83. The dedication was carried out by Bro Cecil Allen, Portadown District Chaplain and Mayor of Craigavon, Stephen Moutray cut the ribbon to officially open the arch.

Graham Sargent of LOL 83 said: "We bought Edenderry's old one and totally refurbished it. Somebody thinks there was an arch in Waringstown 40 years ago, but no one can remember it."

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Just this week the 'MAIL' was supplied with a photograph of the old arch in Waringstown by Ernie Wicks from the village. Judging by the vehicle in the photo it's been estimated the picture was taken in the 1940s.

Graham continued: "Because the County Down Twelfth in Waringstown this year that's the main reason we've got things moving.

"It's been a big year for us - with the new junior lodge, new arch, then the Twelfth."

After the dedication a parade took place in Waringstown featuring two bands and around 200 Orangemen.

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It serves as a nice warm-up for the County Down Twelfth celebrations on Monday. The parade will assemble at the field on the Dunkirk Road and the demonstration afterwards takes place at a field just off the Clare Road.

Eight districts will take part with 98 lodges and 35 bands. The main speaker will be Bro Drew Nelson, Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.

Related topics:Craigavon