IN Londonderry on Saturday the sun shone brightly on the biggest single parade in Northern Ireland, with over 120 bands and clubs on parade.
Thousands of visitors, tourists, residents and supporters were there.
I have never seen a crowd quite like it in 35 years.
The feeling of goodwill was evident, with big smiles and laughter as well as plenty of food available with the chippies and the cafes doing a roaring trade – indeed it was a spectacle of history, culture and colour, with some of the best bands in the country there.
All this was in stark contrast to those who just want to take us back to the darkness and fear of yesterday.
Dissident republicans started their day with a bomb scare in Londonderry
As the Apprentice Boys parade passed off peacefully, the troublemakers in their masks appeared to throw petrol bombs at police officers doing their best to protect the Apprentice Boys and the thousands of spectators.
Thanks to the PSNI for the protection provided for the best parade for years.
We are not cowed by the dissidents with their evil intentions.
We enjoyed the day and better still we will be back to do it again next year.
Jim Shannon MP
Newtownards
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