The borough is the only place in the local policing district to have a Parades Forum, which means there is more co-operation when it comes to enforcing the on-street drinking ban.

But while it's working well here, it means visiting bands are often confused by the rigorous enforcement which takes place in Ballymena - but seemingly not in other parts of the province.

Speaking at the recent Ballymena District Police Partnership meeting, chairman Cllr Paul Frew asked why there was a difference in the on-street drinking enforcement in other areas and asked what steps could be taken to have a consistent approach throughout the whole of H District.

Responding, Area Commander Barbara Gray said Ballymena setting the standard for others to follow.

She said: "Undoubtedly Ballymena has led the way across the province with the approach to on street drinking at band parades.

"The Ballymena Parades Forum has worked closely with the police for several years now and regularly display their responsibilities at parades with effective marshalling and the promotion of their policy to make drinking at parades unacceptable."

She added that the co-operation of the Parades Forum meant events did not take up the same amount of police resources as they used to.

"We are very lucky to have the Parades Forum. They have a good system for marshalling in place which is very effective. They are showing responsibility and are striving to create parades as family events.

"The benefits have been fairly apparent in the Ballymena area. We have been able to reduce the number of police needed at band parades."

Independent DPP member Liam Corey praised the recent statement made by the Pride of the Maine band when they disassociated themselves from the actions of a visiting band outside Harryville chapel.

DPP Chairman Paul Frew praised the commitment of local parade organisers, adding that it would be an education process as local bands brought bands from further afield to Ballymena.

"This approach does make band parades more family friendly and I have seen more children at local parades as a result."