By Kate Heaney
THOUSANDS of people took part and viewed what was the largest ever Orange Parade in Rossnowlagh on Saturday, known as the ‘Donegal Twelfth’.
According to Donegal County Grand Master David Mahon there were 53 bands and 70 lodges from all across the country which took part in glorious sunshine.
Apart from those taking part in the march and proudly displaying their sashes, thousands turned out to view and enjoy the spectacle as participants made their way from St John’s Parish Church to the beach, a route of around one mile.
Speaking to the Donegal News yesterday Mr Mahon said the day had been a huge success which everyone seemed to enjoy.
“Even after the parade was over there were still a lot of people there until around 6pm,” he said.
“There were a lot of cars and buses. As the tide was out people were able to park on the beach and enjoy the stalls selling ice cream and burgers.
It was great to see everyone doing well with the big crowds out and happy to enjoy the sunshine,” he said.
Spectators included former DUP leader Dame Arlene Foster and DUP MLA Deborah Erskine who ensured a comfortable view having brought their own folding chairs.
Brethren young and old from lodges in Cavan, Leitrim and Monaghan were joined by members of Northern Irish lodges from as far afield as Fintona and Donaghadee who came to Donegal for the day.
Grand Master of the Order, Edward Stevenson also took part.
The Rossnowlagh parade is the only Orange parade held in the Republic of Ireland and it has proved a popular family event since 1978.
Mr Mahon described the institution in the county as being in good health.
“The mood is always very good here and we get help from everybody. Everybody gets on well. We get loads of help from all the communities.
“We’ve a number of lodges with ten members and then some with 75 members. We’d a new band formed here called Doorin Flute Band which is over by Killybegs. They will be out for the first time today and will have pride of place near the start of the parade,” he added.
One man who lives in Canada was in Donegal for the parade. Joe Cully left his native Belfast in the 1970s.
“I try to get back for the Twelfth in Northern Ireland and its lovely to get up to Donegal,” the Shankill native said.
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