Drumming role for former first citizen of town

A former Mayor of Carrickfergus is developing a new talent after being gently persuaded to explore his musical side.
(file photo) Councillor Jim McClurg in his Sir Henry Inglesbys Fife and Drum Corps uniform on Giro dItalia day.(file photo) Councillor Jim McClurg in his Sir Henry Inglesbys Fife and Drum Corps uniform on Giro dItalia day.
(file photo) Councillor Jim McClurg in his Sir Henry Inglesbys Fife and Drum Corps uniform on Giro dItalia day.

Councillor Jim McClurg found himself keeping the beat after originally volunteering to be a flag bearer for Sir Henry Ingelsby’s Fife and Drum Corps on a trip to Europe. The Carrick-based musicians take part in historical re-enactment and pageantry.

“I volunteered to go to Spain last year and carry a flag for them. Then I was told I would have to play the drum. I informed them I do not play the drum, but they told me I could keep the beat,” recalled Mr McClurg.

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“I found it enjoyable. Difficult at times but very enjoyable. The weekend was fantastic. I believe we are going out again this year.”
The re-enactment to which Mr Clurg was referring is the Defence of Tarifa pageant. Spain was occupied by Napoleon in 1812 with Cádiz one of the areas that managed to oppose control. The town of Tarifa was a key player.

More recently, the Corps, in their Williamite-period uniforms, entertained outside Carrick Castle when people flocked to the town for the Giro d’Italia and Saturday’s King William pageant at the harbour. Next up is a trip to Liverpool this weekend.

As a past District Master of Carrickfergus Loyal Orange Lodge No. 19, Mr McClurg added that he is used stepping out to the beat of the drum but is determined to improve his new found skills: “I practise at least once a week. I’m learning. It’s never too late.”

And he is encouraging anyone interested in playing with the Corps to come along to Woodburn Orange Hall, Monday or Wednesday at 7.30pm.