Ballymena Royal Black Festival says thanks to all

THE OFFICERS and Members of Ballymena Royal Black District No. 2 wish to thank all the participants and supporters from across Northern Ireland who made their “Black Festival” such a huge success.

The Festival commenced on Wednesday, August 18 with a Musical Concert in Cullybackey High School. This event was well supported by the local community with artists and spectators from across Co. Antrim & Co. Londonderry. A great selection of music was heard on the evening with all age categories taking part.

On Wednesday, August 25, a Treasure Hunt was held commencing from Carnlea Hall at Glarryford. A great turnout of entrants participated from across Co. Antrim with the routes taking in local roads around Glarryford & Cullybackey areas. There were two groups of questions for both novice & experienced entrants. After the hunt all people returned to the hall where light refreshments were served.

On Saturday, August 28 the County Demonstration was held in Ballymena town centre. The parade commenced from The Showground’s at 12.30pm and made its way through the town centre towards Harryville and onto the “Demonstration Field” at Ballee Playing Fields where a religious service was held. There were various musical & children’s entertainment provided in the field.

The parade made its return route at 4.30pm making its way back to Harryville to meet up with their transport for their homeward journey. Ballymena saw its largest crowd of spectators in the town since the last time the Parade was held in the town six years ago. The traders of the town centre reported an increase in footprint and sales on the day.

A special word of thanks goes to Ballymena Borough Council for their help and support in organising the events. These events were open to and supported by all sides of the community to which the Royal Black said they were very grateful.

A special DVD of the “Last Saturday” parade was recorded on the day and is available for a cost of £6. Your copy can be obtained by contacting 07740 613599 or from any District Officer. All profits from these sales will go directly to the “Grand Masters Appeal” which this year is for Kiwoko Hospital in Uganda. The Imperial Black Chapter has donated over £300,000 to charities in recent years and hopes to add another good sum to previous donations. A team of about 20 -25 members will travel to the hospital during 2011 where they will assist in a building and maintenance project for the hospital. Each member travelling to Uganda will be responsible for their own fundraising to cover travel expenses.