Loughgall to host mini Twelfth parade for the second year

It follows the success of the District’s first ever mini Twelfth last year and it is hoped that all 22 private lodges along with their banners, will be on parade.

In addition, ladies from the Women’s Association have been invited to take part, along with the Junior Boys Lodge.

County officers will be in attendance and visitors from other counties and Districts are also welcome.

Around eight bands will accompany the lodges through the historic village along with Lambeg drums if the weather is favourable.

A spokesperson for the District lodge said: “Loughgall is of course the home of the Orange Order and is renowned throughout the world for its historical significance, something that Loughgall District is very proud of.

"The District has the proud distinction of having the Diamond area within its boundaries, the scene of the famous Battle of the Diamond on September 21, 1795 and the parade will pass the Museum of Orange Heritage at Sloan’s House, where the first Orange warrants were signed after the battle.”

The parade, headed by Aughanagurgan Accordion Band, will assemble at McDowell’s Hill on the Armagh side of the village at 7pm sharp. It will then proceed through the village to the field opposite Orchard Park, stopping at the old church ruins to lay a floral wreath in memory of those murdered in the 1641 rebellion.

The parade will return along the same route at approximately 8.15pm.

All sisters, brethren and juniors are welcome as well as members of the public to enjoy the event.