Write a commentOver 40 bands are expected in Newry tonight, Friday 24 August, at the annual South Down Defenders parade.
The annual fundraising parade and competition hosted by South Down Defenders Flute Band will start on the Belfast Road at 7:15pm.
The host band will start proceedings by completing a circuit encompassing the civic centre of the city before the main parade traversing a shorter route will get underway at 8pm.
The main parade is expected to feature bands incorporating all genre of music such as silver, flute, accordion, melody flute and part flute. With bands travelling from as far afield as Portrush and Dunloy to complement the bands who will be in attendance from closer to home such as the Kilkeel duo of Mourne Young Defenders and Pride of Ballinran, it should prove to be a spectacle of music and colour in Newry.
Marshalls will be on duty on the night to assist members of the public and visiting bands persons, whilst we would urge everyone to follow the directions of the PSNI on the night.
Slight traffic disruption will be experienced within the vicinity of the Belfast Road / Sandys Street area of the town between the hours of 8-10pm on Friday 24th August but marshals under the guidance of the PSNI will strive to keep this to a minimum.
Looking forward to the event a spokesperson added "The band would urge anyone with an interest in traditional music and more contemporary airs to attend on Friday night and spectate on this unique marching band phenomenon."
