Streets of Belfast packed for murdered Orangemen parade

Hundreds of people have lined the streets of Belfast for an annual parade in memory of two Orangemen killed by a republican bomb.

By The Newsroom

Published 27th Feb 2016, 20:13 BST

Updated 27th Feb 2016, 20:19 BST

The parade is organised by Ulster Defenders of the Realm LOL 710 to remember Brothers Fred Starrett and James Cummings, who were murdered by republicans 28 years ago.

Frederick Starrett and James Cummings were both members of the Ulster Defence Regiment and were on duty when they were murdered on February 24, 1988 at the then security gate in Royal Avenue. They were also members of lodges in Ballymacarrett No 6 District; Banner of the Cross LOL 1310 and Johnston’s Golden Star LOL 1934, respectively.

Mr Cummings was killed instantly when a bomb exploded and Mr Starrett was rushed to hospital, where he died of his injuries the next day.

A second bomb, believed to have been intended for the police or Army, was discovered and defused.

No one was ever convicted of the murders.

Belfast