Editorial: Royal Black Institution's ‘Last Saturday’ demonstrations a fitting end to the summer parading season

The curtain falls on the parading season in traditional fashion today with "Last Saturday" parades at five locations across the province.

The Royal Black Institution will hold major demonstrations in Coleraine, Dundonald, Dungannon, Larne and Newry.

The loyal order says upwards of 17,000 members will take part in the parades, involving around 350 preceptories and 300 bands.

Thousands more will line the streets to enjoy the sights and sounds, and show their support for those on parade.

Today’s finale to the summer parading season perhaps doesn’t grab the attention of the wider public in the same way that the Twelfth or Scarva does, but nonetheless, it is a day very much loved and enjoyed by the Sir Knights and bands taking part.

In the words of the institution’s Sovereign Grand Master, Rev William Anderson, who will be attending the demonstration in Dundonald, spectators will be treated to “a glorious expression of culture, pageantry, music and history”.

Rev Anderson added: “The institution’s principled stance on the Reformed Christian Faith will be to the forefront at all our demonstrations, with religious services held at each location.”

Resolutions on faith, loyalty and the constitution will be heard during platform proceedings at each of the venues.

The constitutional resolution calls on the UK government to set out a “positive programme” that “governs honestly, values people, and enables everyone to contribute meaningfully to our nation”. Among the priorities, says the Royal Black, should be responsible welfare support; consistent justice; accessible education; and high-quality healthcare and elderly care.

Months of hard work will have gone into organising today’s events, and let’s hope a peaceful and enjoyable day is had by all.