The Grand Master of the Orange Order has announced that events, services and parades will cease until further notice.

In a statement Edward Stevenson said the decision had been taken following the Prime Minister’s appeal to limit social interaction.

He said: “I have taken the unprecedented, but necessary decision to instruct that all meetings, services, events and parades of the Orange Institution should cease immediately and until further notice.

“The Museums of Orange Heritage at Schomberg House and Sloan’s House Loughgall will close. The situation will be kept under constant review and the decisions regarding the resumption of our activities will be guided by advice from health professionals.

“Grand Lodge Headquarters, Schomberg House, will close to the public this Friday. Arrangements have been put in place so that all staff and Grand Lodge Officers will still be contactable by phone or email and we will endeavour to ensure that all enquiries and communication is dealt with as efficiently as possible.

“I appreciate that our culture and traditions are very much a way of life for the Orange family, however in light of the current situation, we must all prioritise the safety of not only our members, but of the entire community.

“As an all island organisation, we ask all members to follow fully the individual health advice of their respective Governments.”

Mr Stevenson added: “The Government has indicated that they will be seeking volunteers for a “wholehearted national effort” to “help and support each other”.

“Therefore, I would appeal to all able-bodied members, who are not deemed to be at risk, to volunteer to assist in this work.”