Easter Monday, Larne, 2009
The feet of the Apprentice Boys hit the streets of Larne on Easter Monday, 13 April 2009 for the first parade of the year in Northern Ireland; held this year under the auspices of the Scottish Amalgamated Committee with the help of Larne Walker club.
From the start at the Number One Club the day went really well, with the unfurling and dedication of the Scottish Amalgamated Committee new bannerette. From there to the war memorial where wreaths were laid in memory of those who gave their lives for our right to the freedoms we now have. A mention has to go to the chaplain of the Scottish Amalgamated Committee for his part in both the dedication ceremony and the service at the cenotaph
The parade then left to go to the marshalling point with the streets filling up nicely with people coming out to watch and support the parade.
A short break was taken at the sunny bay playing fields and a chance to meet up with brethren from Scotland, England and Ulster who haven’t seen each other since the closing of the gates parades in December. This is what makes this association what it is, bringing everyone together at various times through out the year to celebrate our shared history.
The main parade started on time at 1pm and when it reached the main street of Larne the crowds had really multiplied and the street was packed.
There are too many people and clubs to mention but there were over 50 bands in attendance and many more Clubs represented. The Scottish Amalgamated Committee and General Committee were led by the Shankill Road Defenders who I have to say played excellent.
All in all I have to say it was another great day for the association and the hard work from the Scottish Amalgamated Committee and Larne Walker Club paid off. The town look great with the crimson flags and bunting well done to all who played their part in organising this years Easter Monday parade.
Next year the Easter Monday parade moves to Cookstown with the South Derry and East Tyrone Amalgamated Committee the hosts, following that, in 2011 Limavady and the North West Amalgamated Committee are the hosts.
Posted at 19:15 on Thursday 16th April 2009