Orange official hopes ‘Twelfth will be full of pride in our identity’

Orange official hopes ‘Twelfth will be full of pride in our identity’

9 July 2025

PREPARATIONS are complete for this Saturday’s Twelfth of July parade in Dundrum.

Thousands of Orangemen from across the district will be in the village to mark the 335th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne.

Brethren from the Ballynahinch, Lecale, Saintfield and Comber districts will join those from the host Castlewellan District No 12 for the Battle of the Boyne celebrations which will be a day of tradition, colour and pageantry.

Over 3,000 members of the Orange Institution and approximately 70 bands will be in the picturesque village for the Twelfth Demonstration with thousands of spectators lining the streets.

Officers and members of the Castlewellan District are looking forward to hosting brethren, sisters and bands from neighbouring districts.

The parade will leave the assembly field on the Belfast Road at noon, making its way along Main Street and the Old Road to the demonstration field on the Ballyloughlin Road.

The return parade will leave the field around 4pm, retracing its steps back to the Belfast Road where the visiting Districts will board their busses.

The platform proceedings will be chaired by Worshipful Brother Ernie Ritchie, District Master, Castlewellan LOL No 12, with the religious service led by Wor Bro Rev George Speers, District Chaplain.

Ahead of Saturday, Mr Ritchie said all roads lead to Dundrum, recently acclaimed as the best place to live in Northern Ireland by the Sunday Times.

He described the village as the “premier location” for parading and spectating as in addition to Saturday’s Twelfth demonstration, the village is also hosting the Co Down Royal Black Preceptory parade on August 30.

Mr Ritchie said the Orange Order’s assembly in Dundrum is not merely a nod to the past, but a “powerful assertion of the values we hold inviolable – liberty, justice, and truth”.

He continued: “It presents an occasion to renew alliances, fortify our bonds and exalt the traditions that are our lifeblood. 

“We take immense pride in the vibrant colours and evocative images of our banners and the stirring sounds of our bands, each representing our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the history and culture of the Loyal Orange Institution.”

Mr Ritchie added: “My deepest gratitude goes to everyone who has worked tirelessly to plan and deliver this event. 

“To all who have travelled from near and far, your presence at our celebrations and is much appreciated. May this Twelfth be full of joy, solidarity, and pride in our identity and culture. Let us uphold in our beliefs and strive for a future that honours the principles we hold dear.”

Other speakers this Saturday will include Worshipful Brother David Morrow (Assistant Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland) and Worshipful Brothers David Scott (Grand Master of the Royal Arch Purple Chapter of Ireland), William Brown (Castlewellan District Deputy District Master) and John Smyth (Castlewellan District Assistant Secretary).

Roads will close from 11.15am and in order to minimise disruption and congestion, spectators and participants are encouraged to arrive early. 

Accessible parking is available at Dundrum Football Pitches located at the Old Road for Blue Badge holders only. 

Public parking in Dundrum is limited, but organisers say there is ample parking in the demonstration field car park which is accessible by turning off at Clough and following signposted routes. 

Diversions will be signposted for traffic from Newcastle and Clough, while there will be fully serviced toilet facilities, including accessible units, these will be located at Main Street, the assembly point and the Demonstration Field. 

Organisers are working to minimise disruption and are encouraging local businesses and shops to remain open and benefit from the large crowd. With thousands expected to descend on the area, it’s set to be a memorable and positive day for Dundrum and the surrounding community.

There are also two other events on the eve of the Twelfth parade in the village and the day after.

The Eleventh Night bonfire will be lit at De Courcey Way with the event getting underway at 9.15pm with a parade featuring the Dundrum Crown Defenders Flute Band. It leaves the Orange Hall at 9.30pm and proceed to the bonfire site via Main Street, Manse Road, Church Avenue and School Hill.

This Sunday, the Castlewellan District’s annual church service will be held in Bryansford Parish Church at 3.30pm.

A parade to the church will leave Bryansford Orange Hall at 3pm headed by Maghera’s Star of Down Flute Band. 

The guest preacher will be the Rev Rodney Magennis, Curate of Aghaderg, Donaghmore and Scarva. Visiting brethren and the general public will be made most welcome.