Organisers of one of the flagship events of Ulster’s parading season have pledged their support to a local dementia charity. Next month’s Sham Fight in Scarva will be held in partnership with Dementia NI, raising funds for and awareness of the illness. Tens of thousands of people are anticipated to converge once again on the... Read More

Rev William Anderson has been elected as the new Sovereign Grand Master of the Royal Black Institution, following a meeting of the Loyal Order’s ruling body in Co Monaghan. The Church of Ireland minister, from Co Armagh, succeeds Millar Farr who announced he would step down from the role last month. He served as Grand... Read More

Swords have been drawn ahead of this year’s Sham Fight – with Scarva set to host another clash of the kings next month. Tens of thousands are anticipated to converge on the idyllic Co Down village on July 13 for what has become one of the most colourful and enjoyable events in Northern Ireland’s cultural... Read More

Sovereign Grand Master of the Royal Black Institution, Millar Farr, will formally step down from the role next month, it has been confirmed. The Cookstown man, 76, has been the leader of the Loyal Order for the past decade, having succeeded the late William Logan MBE in 2008. Mr Farr’s successor will be elected at... Read More

Senior members of the Imperial Grand Black Chapter have attended a special reception in Armagh, hosted by the Lord Mayor, Alderman Gareth Wilson. The event, held in the parlour of the council offices at the city’s Palace Demesne, took place following the Loyal Institution’s announcement earlier this year it was developing new headquarters in nearby... Read More

The Royal Black Institution is teaming up with a local Christian outreach organisation to bring the gospel to children and young people in its latest charity appeal. Proceeds from the Loyal Order’s biennial fundraiser will support Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), it has been announced. All funds raised will go towards the major redevelopment of one... Read More

The Royal Black Institution has announced innovative plans to develop new headquarters and an interpretative centre in Co Armagh. The Loyal Order has confirmed it has acquired a property in Loughgall, which it plans to be fully operational by the end of next year. ‘The Tavern’ – located on the main street of the quaint... Read More

The Royal Black Institution has expressed its deep sadness and profound regret following the death of its former Sovereign Grand Master, William Logan. Mr Logan, 86, passed away peacefully during the early hours of Thursday morning. The senior Sir Knight had been ill for a short period. Sovereign Grand Master Millar Farr led tributes to... Read More

It was blooming in Armagh City at the weekend. Co Armagh Grand Orange Lodge and Co Armagh Grand Black Chapter jointly hosted a flower festival to mark this month’s 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, and the legacy of Martin Luther. The event at Armagh Orange hall, which ran from Friday until Sunday, showcased a... Read More

Upwards of 17,000 members of the Royal Black Institution will be on parade at six locations across Northern Ireland, for the traditional ‘Last Saturday’ demonstrations, held this year on August 26. Approximately 350 preceptories, most accompanied by bands, will take part in processions in Comber, Antrim, Castledawson, Lisburn, Omagh and Aughnacloy. Sovereign Grand Master Millar... Read More