Leadership of Apprentice Boys says mass parade 'reminds us of the resilience of the beseiged and importance of tradition'
The leadership of the Apprentice Boys of Derry has declared today's gathering in Ballymoney a success, saying it is a reminder of “the resilience of the besieged and the respect for the history and traditions that continue to shape our identity".
Thousands of marchers paraded through the Co Antrim town, marking the onset of the Siege of Londonderry.
Before the event, the organisers anticipated 6,000 marchers and 72 bands.
Afterwards a joint statement was issued by governor William Walker and general secretary David Hoey, saying: ”As an association we haven’t praise enough for our host amalgamated committee, Coleraine and District, for the outstanding work in making what will be undoubtedly the largest gathering of Apprentice Boys outside of Londonderry this year.
"Ballymoney was an exceptional display of our association and a credit to all taking part.
"Our thanks too for the tremendous programme ahead of Easter Monday, with its BallyMonday Crimson Festival initiative, which has brought together a wider spirit of community and shared purpose within its area's reach.
"That community was out in vast numbers today, lining the entire route start to finish.
"The numbers that came to watch the parade was astonishing and is a tribute to the scale of advance organisation and preparation.
"What Coleraine and District have imagined and made reality could only happen with dedication, commitment and many hours of unseen effort.
"The result was a vibrant showcase which proudly promotes our history, culture and traditions.
"Easter Monday is traditionally the time we remember the imposition of an absolute 105-day siege on the City of Londonderry in 1689.
"We were reminded as the Crimson Colours flew proudly, just as they do in August and December, of the sacrifices and resilience of the besieged and the respect for the history and traditions that continue to shape our identity today.
"As we look past today’s fantastic event, may we carry forward the same spirit of determination, commitment and unity that has carried our crimson cause through the centuries.
"May the historic cry of ‘no surrender’ always remind us of the strength from which it was born.”