Lodge Life: nominations open for annual Orange awards

Nominations are now open for this year's Orange Community Awards '“ due to be held in Lisburn in March.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Jan 2018, 07:00 BST
Barry Williamson, Carricklongfield LOL 748, was the recipient of the Grand Masters Award at last years awards ceremony held at the Island Arts Centre in LisburnBarry Williamson, Carricklongfield LOL 748, was the recipient of the Grand Masters Award at last years awards ceremony held at the Island Arts Centre in Lisburn
Barry Williamson, Carricklongfield LOL 748, was the recipient of the Grand Masters Award at last years awards ceremony held at the Island Arts Centre in Lisburn

The annual ceremony showcases the extensive community work undertaken by members of the institution, recognising and rewarding excellence within the Loyal Order, as well as acknowledging the achievements of those in the marching bands’ fraternity. A full and varied programme of entertainment is also scheduled.

The showpiece event will take place at the city’s Island Arts Centre on Friday March 23.

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Prizes due to be presented on the night will include those of best new banner; individual and lodge community involvement; youth development; individual musician’s award and band of the year; as well as sporting achievement and Christian outreach awards.

As is tradition, senior Orangeman Edward Stevenson will also personally confer the special Grand Master’s Award. Last year’s recipient was Barry Williamson, who following personal tragedy devoted himself to raising awareness of blood cancer. The young Orangeman raised nearly £60,000 for Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI following the death of his wife, Alison, in 2016 who was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer.

Iain Carlisle, chief executive of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, said: “The Community Awards provide a unique opportunity to highlight and reflect the outstanding commitment which many members of the institution give to their lodges and communities.

“Their aim is to recognise and reward excellence, and we are delighted to be returning to Lisburn for what promises to be another memorable evening.

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“We once again look forward to recognising individuals and lodges for their sterling, and often publicly unseen, work and activities throughout the year.”

He added: “With the deadline for nominations in early March, we would encourage all members and lodges to get involved in this wonderful annual event.”

Confirmed entertainment at the awards ceremony includes performances from Pride of Ballinran Flute Band; Markethill Ulster Scots highland dancers; soloist Paul Elliott; and a champion drum majors’ display.

Tickets are now available directly from the Lagan Valley Island box office.

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Application forms for the various categories can also be downloaded via the Grand Lodge website at www.grandorangelodge.co.uk.

Alternatively, they can be requested by emailing [email protected] or by telephone on 028 9070 1122.

The closing date for receipt of completed nominations is Friday March 2.

Related topics:NominationsLisburn