Sir Knights set for annual Fermanagh demonstration

The annual County Fermanagh demonstration hosted by the Royal Black Institution will take place in Ballinamallard next weekend.

Approximately 30 preceptories, accompanied by as many bands, will step out on Saturday (4 Aug) to commemorate the 1689 Battle of Newtownbutler.

Sir Knights from three local districts will be joined by visiting members from the neighbouring border counties of Cavan and Monaghan. This year’s parade will be hosted by Ballinamallard Crimson Heroes RBP 272.

Among those taking part will be the Institution’s Sovereign Grand Master, Rev William Anderson; County Fermanagh Grand Master, Tom Elliott; and other senior members of the Loyal Order.

Parade participants will assemble at a field on the Craghan Road prior to the main procession, which commences at 1pm. The parade will make its way through the village to the demonstration field on the Enniskillen Road for a religious service.

The guest speaker is Rev Thomas Greer. The Sovereign Grand Master will be the principal speaker on the resolutions.

To commemorate the ending of the First World War, the procession will also incorporate a display of soldiers in period costume.

This year’s event will be held in partnership with Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, raising funds for and awareness of the charity.

The Fermanagh parade takes place ahead of the traditional Royal Black Last Saturday demonstrations, hosted at six different venues across the Province on August 25.