Live The Twelfth

Good morning from Belfast City Centre and welcome to

We are here for the next hour and a half.

We are also live around the world on Web.

So wherever you're watching us from, you're very welcome.

And of course you can keep up to date with events the day on

BBC Newsline, Radio Ulster and our Online Service.

More on the Belfast parade in a moment.

But first to Markethill where the parade is well underway.

Thanks, Helen. The procession started making its

way through the center of Markethill about an hour ago.

And now the Lodges and bands are streaming steadily past

our camera position on the Mowhan Road on their way to the field,

just about a mile further on. 155 Lodges and over 80 bands are

taking part in the County Armagh commemorations, the biggest

in the country and one of three Twelfth events to have been awarded

Flagship status recognition by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.

I'll be finding out more about that later in the programme.

There's also plenty of music here today in Markethill and that

includes over 60 Lambeg drummers that will be adding their own unique

thunderous sound to the proceedings. Now,

back to Belfast and Walter Love. And good morning from our commentary

position on the corner of Ormeau Avenue as the parade makes its way

along Bedford Street on their way to The districts notate each year.

Districts five and six have led the parade. It was starting to rain

about an hour ago but the rain has held off. But the weather forecast

is not brilliant. So it might diminish the colours ever so

slightly. But it is a colourful scene.

I'm joined this morning by Irish historian and author,

Do you remember witnessing your first Twelfth parade? It was in the

middle of the 1960s. I was awestruck by the immense size of it. It took

about three hours to pass. I was standing on the Lisburn Road. The

difference between now and then if they were bagpipe bands, bass and

silver bands. And I was impressed by the girls accompanying the band, it

really was elegant and I was astonished. This scene always

attracts a big crowd in Bedford Street. The traffic islands do not

interfere too much with the parade. But very big crowds. I often wonder

whether that is because of the lovely sunny morning that we usually

have. But the lovely sunny morning that we usually

diminished the size of the crowds. A very big and colourful spectacle.

This is an occasion when many families come. There are a lot of

children. Very well dressed for a summer morning. This is the

spectacle we expect here in Bedford Street every year.

Some of the bands have military style uniforms. One of the changes

that you may have noticed over the years is the fact that we do not

have Lambegs drums in the parade in Belfast any more. And also no pipe

bands. I am Belfast any more. And also no pipe

disappearance of the pipe bands. Belfast any more. And also no pipe

think it is because they are very keen on competitions.

think it is because they are very of Lambegs in the city is partly

because of their immense size. There are three feet in diameter. They way

between 35 and ?40. It is just too much to walk the full length to the

Field with such weighty instruments. Especially as the speed of the

procession has increased since the 19th century. Helen Mark is

procession has increased since the the street and she probably has some

people to talk to. I have a very special guest,

He is three times world drummer. Is He is three times world drummer. Is

that right? Yes. When I was young He is three times world drummer. Is

was lucky and had the best of the business around me. You will -- you

were with field Marshal Montgomery for a time. Yes. And I am now in

Scotland. Bands like that are the greatest in the world. They do not

just ask anyone to be a drummer. You almost have to be headhunted. You

have to be lucky enough but it is a lot of hard work and dedication.

They are based in Scotland so how does that work for you. I travelled

back and forward for practice and competition. I fly to Glasgow or

Edinburgh and will travel to the is and competitions. How does that

affect your life? I love it. It does not really. It is not as complicated

as people make out. It is what I love to do.

It is a really special thing. A wonderful thing for a young boy like

you to get that opportunity. It is great and the guys that I had around

me when I was younger, they were the best to learn from. Good luck for

today and we hand over to Ralph McClean and Kevin Hughes in

Markethill. This is a beautiful part of the

world and also very historic. It is. It is part of an ancient parish. And

the town was It is part of an ancient parish. And

of Ross Ford was created by King James. It was in the 17th century

that this marvellous time grew and developed into this lovely spot were

in today. And that name keeps coming up. The second Earl was petitioned

by the newly formed Orange Order to ask if they could parade. And they

were permitted to as long as they were of soberly Order. We have

silver bands and pipe bands today and also the Lambegs. And we will

have a great day. What would be a highlight is of the procession in

Markethill? I'm looking forward to seeing the Lambegs. I you ready for

the noise? It is really deafening. Now back to Belfast and Walter Love.

I should say there are 17 demonstrations across Northern

Ireland on this 12th of July. Belfast is the largest with

something like 60 bands. Many of those Scottish bands. Accompanying

Orange men and women from nine districts. We have seen district

number five Sandy Row now moving into district number six.

Accompanied by 22 bands and one ladies district as well.

Jonathan Bardon is with me. An impressive display. Very impressive.

The Ulster volunteer Force for 1912, all dressed as they would have been

before the First World War. Plenty of bowler hats. Most of the bands at

Fife and from and that is how it would have been in the 18th century

to accompany volunteers which existed in Ulster from 7078. --

1778, when a French invasion was threatened. Very smart military

uniforms. Indeed. The look is as it would have been one century ago.

There are lodges meeting up and down the length of the country. Some are

in cities but many are based in rural areas. Claire McCollum has

been to the Kingdom of Mourne to speak with members of one such

historical march. Meeting in a small hall in the

idyllic mountains of more is the largest large in the Orange Order.

Many members are also musicians in the Flute Band and the Lodge boasts

over 150 members spanning three generations.

This is Ballyvea just outside Kilkeel. I have come to meet Jim

Martin and some members of his family. This is the biggest Lodge

with around 150 members. How special is that for you? We have a good

recruiting officer so that is a lot to do with it. It is a great place

to be and it makes me humble and proud. It is great that all my

family are members as well. Your father has been in it over 50 years.

What is your earliest memory of coming to watch the parade 's? I

used to just go with my mother and watch the band. I have been in the

band since I was 11. And is it unique that many members are also

members of the band? I would say that is pretty unique. The band is

very enthusiastic. We look forward to that every demonstration as well.

Ballyvea 's band is over 50 strong and been going for 137 years.

So it is a big band. Not involved. How special is it? It is good to say

that you have the biggest band. It is good for the kids in school to

say that. What age will you when you became a member? I was nine years

old. I like it, it is fun. They doing very well. They're great kids.

Jim?s grandson Andrew is the latest family member to join. What is it

like to be involved? Just great. Good to be part of it all. And is

this something you would like to pass on to your children someday? It

is certainly. And keep on passing it down to the grandchildren and

great-grandchildren. What is it that you believe holds this large

together? From you believe holds this large

meeting three nights in the month. I think that household families

together. Especially for this large. It is something special to me.

That was Claire McCollum there with some members of the Ballyvea Lodge.

And just after that was filmed sadly one of the oldest members passed

away. So they're a commemoration of the Twelfth this year will be tinged

with sadness. Presumably with great remembrances of his contribution to

the Orange Order. You can keep up to date with events throughout the day

on BBC Newsline, Radio Ulster and online. If you have relatives

overseas why not text because this year the coverage is again worldwide

on the web. And now back to Helen Mark in Bedford Street. Where are

you from? Newcastle. You don't sound like you are from that part of the

world? I was born in Glasgow but I have lived in Newcastle for a very

long time. This is a very special day? This is the 55th anniversary.

Congratulations! Gold or silver or platinum? Are you here especially

for this parade? We tried to get over here every year. Why here? All

the bands come out for our anniversary! Just for your day? I

like to get my feet on to the Ulster soil. What about the rest of the

day? Being anniversary? We will enjoy the music. It is great to see

all of the crowds on the street. And lots of Scottish accents. A lot!

Enjoy the rest of your anniversary. Congratulations. Back to Walter

Love. Helen is doing very well competing

with all about noise. This is a very noisy scene. This is what it is all

about, and the interesting thing is the fact that if you are marching

here in this parade, you have perhaps one band ahead of you and

one behind and it is rather difficult? Indeed. And there is a

very strong religious element to this. This is evident on those

banners. They are very special to this procession. And they really got

banners. They are very special to started in the early 19th-century at

Enniskillen. On one occasion, 140 banners showing King William

Crossing the Boyne. These are made of silk. They were made in Belfast

and in Buckinghamshire. Stretch silk was put over the wooden frame and

coated with rubber before oil based colours were applied and painters

often work from glass slides of the seem to be used. That means that

these are very vulnerable to the bad weather? Today might be difficult

later on. The skies are brightening up all the time. So we are doing OK.

So far. I would expect that is what the Indian rubber is therefore.

So far. I would expect that is what most precious ones were made before

the First World War. During the war, there was a silk shortage and that

is when these coronets begun to replace sashes. -- collarettes. When

the Orange Order first began, the used Orange flowers. Not until the

middle of the 19th-century did you get those Orange lilies that you can

see today. In Belfast, were coming to the end of district number six. A

number seven, combining with number eight, these are the smaller

districts that combined. This is the scene in Belfast. The main parade.

But Ralph McClean is in Markethill. Maggie. This is a very eight-day for

Markethill and Lewis Singleton is the district master. Just how big is

this? The biggest day in County Armagh, it comes to Markethill every

11 years and this time is very proud of its tradition and we threw

everything at it. There is a great family atmosphere on the streets.

What sort of numbers are we talking about? In terms of Orangemen, around

5000. Another 2000 perhaps with the bands and the visitors it is

difficult to say because a lot don't come in until he districts have

paraded their own hometown. Perhaps 20,000 on top of that. This is a

different atmosphere to the city. Markethill has a very different by?

It is the country. And one thing that is obvious by the different

bands, there is full representation of accordion, silver and pipe bands

and because of the song, the drums are also out. Is this not always

about? It always shines here! -- is the son not always out. Firstly, the

main itinerary is to oversee this. I have to say that the team here, the

district have to say that the team here, the

and everyone have made my life very simple. You would have around 70-80

people on the ground. Marshalling and controlling this, working with

police very closely. The police have been excellent. My job is actually

to oversee this and give it little tweaks here and there. Good luck and

enjoy the rest of the day. This is a very big day and the Orange Order

has a lot to do with history. Helen Mark went along to just outside

Loughgall to find out where it all began. When you can see acres of

apple trees, you can only be in County Armagh. I am in the Diamond

Grange, this is a very special connection with Orangeism.

Grange, this is a very special the connection between this place

and Orangeism? It was here that the Orange Order was founded and were

standing on the hill in North Armagh, really

standing on the hill in North decisive battle of the Diamond in

1795, we saw the birth of Orangeism. decisive battle of the Diamond in

How did it happen? It happened decisive battle of the Diamond in

quickly and was over quickly, the Catholic defenders over their just

opposite, the Protestant people were here and the defenders charged up

this hill to face dead. One of the factors was at the

defenders were born down dead. One of the factors was at the

opponent and it was afterwards down there that Orangeism was founded. By

the triumphant day boys. In the aftermath, what happened? The

victors pulled themselves together and carried wounded

victors pulled themselves together and in the smoking ruins of the

cottage, which had and in the smoking ruins of the

either defenders, they clashed hands around the table and formed a

brotherhood for protection. These men with blackened faces from

gunshot smoke, gathering in honour of what they called the great

deliverer, William of what they called the great

was Civil Liberties and that we can the Orange Society, soon to become

the Orange Order to defend the Protestant position in Ireland and

led to the Armagh clearance when something like 8000 Catholics were

driven from our man, County Down and Jerome and the settling in County

Mayo and it all ended in bloodshed in the famous Irish insurrection. --

Tyrone. We are surrounded by farmland and birdsong and yet, this

place was so significant in the history of the country? It is a very

quiet, gentle place with enormous history. Hilda, this is Dan Winter's

cottage and you have a very direct connection to that character? I'm

married Derek Winter, who was the direct descendant. When my husband

died, he needed something to go for and this was my refuge. You run this

on a voluntary basis and you have a great passion for it? I don't look

at this as responsibility, I just enjoy doing it and I think that the

story, the proper story of the Orange Order, should be known. The

proper birthplace and why it was started and what they stand for. Dan

Winter's cottage was right at the heart of the formation of Orangeism.

It was in this course -- in the size in the Citigroup, the decision was

made to form the Orange Order. -- in this house. A lot of memorabilia has

been added, people whose grandfather has died and they have presented

this. We have a chain of office from a lady who was a Grand Mistress in

America, her daughter posted this to me. What does this mean to you over

the years? I just love it, meeting the people. You can spend time going

out at night and you would not have as much fun as you would have here

and meeting people. I did not really set out to do this. 40 years ago, if

you said to me I would be doing this, I would say, catch yourself

on! I would be feeding turkeys! Hillyard, back to Belfast. -- here

we are. And at the end of that picture, Donegall Square West, there

is a famous Leadenhall library, founded in 1788. The last

subscribing library in Ireland. They have an interesting display until

the end of the month. Postcards of Dan Winter's cottage and some

historic documents from Canada. And report on the 17th procession of the

Orange Lodge in Ontario in 1876 and a report on the 44th provincial

Grand Orange Lodge at New Brunswick. That is on display in the library

until the end of the month. They are having their holiday at the moment

until they reopen again on Wednesday. And this is the Ewart

Building. A very historic building. And the Ulster Hall, this has

connections in 1912, services were held here before the signing of the

Ulster covenant in the City Hall. But we are back in 2014 and we can

see some of the newer signs of Belfast. The modern science.

Anywhere on the roof of the BBC, if you look 360 degrees, quite a number

of buildings are very new. The changing face of Belfast. But here

we are with our traditional scene in Bedford Street looking down the

street and there are big rides either side. -- league crowds. Very

well-dressed bandsmen. Many are from Scotland, of course. That has been a

very interesting development in the Belfast parade. The number of

Scottish participant 's? I suppose this does reflect the fact that they

can get here more cheaply than before. And it could be that many

Scots that are here are, I would say, they would be yes people in the

coming referendum. Back to Helen Mark with the crowds. I have met

some international visitors. Hello. I am Jerry from Toronto. And this is

your family? This is current. Is this your first time? I have been

here quite a few times. Is a Northern Ireland accent? I was born

in Belfast at the heart of the Empire and I emigrated to Canada

when I was a young boy. It is still there. This is your first time? For

30 years. And I am finally here and we're having a ball. What do you

think? I love it, people marching and all of the colours. Fantastic.

Very exciting. Go on, then! Do you know that we are actually live on

the internet? All around the world. Your family back on... To everybody

in Canada... ! And you were in Markethill yesterday? We would

County Armagh and the Met family for the first time. Hello to all of the

new family! -- we met. Enjoy your day. Thank you. Back to Walter.

Richard Hayward was a well-known Northern Irish writer

and broadcaster with an interesting link to Orange culture.

Ralph McClean has been taking a look at his life's work. This

Ralph McClean has been taking multifaceted character. A writer,

musician and broadcaster. And an Orange man. What for you is the

musician and broadcaster. And an magic of Richard Hayward? He was a

musician and broadcaster. And an writer and director. And a proud

Orange man. A lot of people joined the Orange Order for the right

reasons, for the Orange Order for the right

helping her neighbours. Richard Hayward

helping her neighbours. Richard and then on the turn of the heel he

would do the Irish and then on the turn of the heel he

man and an Irishman and British, and then on the turn of the heel he

three. We can all do that. We should celebrate Richard Hayward.

three. We can all do that. We should man of many parts. He was at the

three. We can all do that. We should forefront of almost every

three. We can all do that. We should enterprise. He was there

three. We can all do that. We should songs, both traditional Irish and

Orange songs. And he set up his own drama company that put on a number

of memorable plays drama company that put on a number

were introduced to different parts of Ireland

were introduced to different parts about. He joined the Orange Order in

were introduced to different parts 1957 and became a member of the

number seven Lodge. He was a supporter of oranges and the

original supporter of oranges and the

mentioned the travel writing. That is a great way to get into his work.

He described the story of an English visitor coming to Belfast to watch

The Twelfth possession and being visitor coming to Belfast to watch

slightly confused by it all. He asked what it was about. The Twelfth

of what with Mac The Twelfth of July, replied the exasperated

Northerner. The visitor persisted, I know the date quite well but this

possession, does it celebrate some local event? Local event? ! Go home

and read your Bible, replied the outraged man.

How important is he in terms of music? In many ways he was a

pioneer. An Orange man with an eclectic embrace of everything

cultural on the entire island. When people look back at that period now

they would see him as a vital link. Many of the songs he recorded may

well have been forgotten. How significant was his recording of the

sash? It was the first recording ever made of it on record. The

version that is sung today, the melody has changed. Do you think he

stretched himself a bit too thin and had his finger in too many pies? Did

that work against him? It is possible because people like to put

someone in a box as they do with politics. But we are many things.

And that was the sort of man Richard Haworth was. He embraced everything.

You may be interested to know that a BBC exhibition "In Praise

of Ulster" which celebrates the life of Richard Hayward will be on

display in Larne Library - Hayward's home town - until the end of July.

The exhibition will then be on display in a number

of other locations throughout Northern Ireland.

Back to Helen. Glyn Roberts is chief executive Order of the regional

trade Association. For you the issue is whether the shops are going to be

busy today. How are the traders feeling? It is important to

normalise the day in terms of the trade. If the parades are not your

thing then the shops are open. There is a lot to see and do besides the

parades. And we hope many people here today will take time to go and

do some shopping. Is it a difficult decision for the traders to stay

open? Each individual will make the call, what is good for them and

their business. It is about making sure that people who are not

interested in parades have something to see and do in the city centre

today. And the same across Northern Ireland? Many are trying to trade as

normal today. People still have two shop and go about their business. It

is about trying to make sure that trade is as normal as possible. And

a lot of people are out on the streets. They use local shops so you

do need that service for people going to visit the parades across

the country. Because it is on Saturday it is an important trading

day. July is normally a good day for the retail tourism sector so we have

two normalise it as much as possible.

The Orange Order?s flagship programme is something very

important. This year it centres on Limavady and Larne as well as

Markethill. These are aimed at broadening the appeal with tourism

in mind. And this year we have world host programmes. As well as the big

parade in Belfast there are demonstrations in Irvinestown,

Newtownards, Kilkeel, Dungannon, Ballygawley and the shame today. --

a shame. And a week ago we had demonstrations in County Donegal. We

have moved on to district Number Ten. One of the smaller district. It

has seven lodges and five vans. And ladies district as well. -- five

bands. Jonathan you said that when you

first saw it it was three hour parade. It certainly hours to pass a

given spot. I am impressed at the variety of uniforms. That is struck

me this time. All ages represented. One young lady who may remember her

first Twelfth, but who knows. The family tradition is important here.

And remarkable number of ladies in particular with Union flag dresses.

I have just seen a St George flag as well. I imagine that those will be

treasured photographs. That young man at his first Twelfth.

We noticed that the Orange lilies. After the Battle of the Boyne, for

the next 50 years or so the main way of commemorating William was with an

Orange tree. Then they began to use Sweet William and some other lilies

that they could come across. And then more exotic lilies came in from

the Far East and Turkey and those were used and are used today.

These are the pink ladies, a celebrated element. A very

interesting name. Another aspect of the colour of the day.

Plenty of Orange sashes and collars. King William himself, we know that

he wore an Orange sash at the Battle of the Boyne. He made himself so

prominent in the day before the battles that someone from the other

side of the river fired a shot and actually managed to graze him. But

the change to the collars comes mostly around about the time of the

First World War. That was when silk was running short. And now we need

Belfast again for a moment to go back to Markethill. We've heard a

Belfast again for a moment to go lot about what the event means for

the Orange Order. But what about the community with Mac Sharon lives just

up the road. How big an event is this for Markethill? It is massive

and it is also a cross community event. There was something about

this town which is very resilient and pulls together. It stars. The

model of Markethill is strength from within. All the people gathered

together and work really well. within. All the people gathered

would not happen without teamwork. within. All the people gathered

We sometimes think it is one one-off event but during the week there is a

lot going on. On Tuesday night we had a Pipe Band tattoo. All the

bands in the County Armagh area. It was a fantastic night and thousands

bands in the County Armagh area. It lined the street. So it is a very

special atmosphere. I have never missed a Twelfth M entire life. I

love the occasion, meeting the family and coming together with

love the occasion, meeting the community. Doctor Gavin Hughes is

with us. The commemoration of the First World War is a significant

element? If we look at the bands element? If we look at the bands

going past there are quite a lot of references to the First World War.

going past there are quite a lot of The Royal Irish Fusiliers, the ninth

Battalion had horrendous casualties at the Battle of the Somme. So the

First World War is a vital part to be remembered amongst the Orange

tradition as well as the other military institutions. And some

other local stories resonate. Markethill has its own Victoria

Cross winner. A colour sergeant major. Cited for bravery during the

Indian mutiny on three occasions. On major. Cited for bravery during the

one occasion he led a bayonet charge. And ended up winning the

Victoria Cross. Just one of many stories. Very much so. We love

history like that. We will come back to you again later but for now it is

back to Belfast. At roughly this point every year the

parade takes a pause but things are progressing very well. We have been

with district Number Ten. And then in the Order of things this year we

go to district number one. Against the prominence of the Flute

Band which is very much an element of the Twelfth these days. Yes. This

is how they marched in the late 17th century. A military bearskin there.

Very rich embroidery. The sashes and the collars containing all kinds of

symbols. Many quite difficult to understand. The Ark of the covenant,

the burning bush, the trumpet. Going back to the Old Testament. It was

conceived by Gideon soldiers. There is David?s sling. Symbols referring

to conflict with alien tribes and religions. And many of the lodges

have strong religious prayer meetings. Presumably that means when

it comes to choosing what will go on to their owner, it often will be on

a religious theme. William on his horse crossing the River Boyne is

popular. But also different churches. The Crown and the Bible

also popular. And the handshake, the latter with three steps symbolising

face, hope and charity. The cross, the anchor and the heart also

symbolising faith, hope and charity. The Coffin, the all seeing

eye. The sun, moon and stars. We are still with district number nine. It

is sometimes hard to differentiate. But this is a very long parade. At

least six miles from Clifton Street. And Carlisle Circus, through to the

field at Barnett's Demesne. Some gentle hills, I would suspect. Some

of them seem heavier going. Some more banners.

The immaculate uniforms of the bandsmen. And you can see the

popularity of the flute. That used to be known as the German flute. It

was blown into sideways. But the smaller version, known as the Fife.

This would have been used by militia and members of the Orange Order

would have been very familiar with that. I wonder how many people

taking part will have been doing some training, as you would for a

marathon! This is a very long walk and of course, the return journey. I

would say it is pretty exhausting but it is amazing that the vast

majority actually manage to do it and bubbly without any training. It

is enthusiasm and determination that keeps them marching and parading in

this procession. I wonder sometimes, do they know

what they are commemorating? And you have the popular song, The Sash,

they celebrate the Boyne. The Order is Derek, which Gannon in December

of 1688 and was over by July followed by on the 31st of July 1689

followed by the Battle of the Boyne on the 1st of July 1690. Not the

Twelfth of July. And the most important, that decisive victory for

the army of King William, on the plains of East Galway, 7000 Irish

men died in the afternoon, the bloodiest in Irish history. You

mentioned the Twelfth of July because there is a lot of change in

the calendar? In the middle of the 18th-century, they change the

calendar to coincide with the calendar as used on the European

mainland and that led to the loss of 11 days. In fact, there were some

protests in England to give them back. And this may help explain why

people think of the Battle of the Boyne being on the Twelfth of

people think of the Battle of the I can see this as a kind of

coalescing celebration of all of those victories. In a war where

Ireland was briefly the cockpit of Europe, deciding whether Louis XIV

and his allies were going to be able to conquer the Netherlands and

elsewhere and, in fact, an interesting point is that King

William had not only the Catholic Emperor of Austria on his side but

also the Pope. Laura Woodstock, with those strong Scottish links

acknowledged on the bass drum. -- lower. And, again, those military

uniforms. The great influx of Scots occurred not in the early

17th-century, as most think, except for North Down and South Antrim, the

great influx occurred in the 16 90s, when was a terrible famine in

Scotland and tens of thousands of when was a terrible famine in

Scots came over to make a new life in Ulster. District Number 10. Allah

five. -- Ballynafeigh. It is a very tiring occasion for some people!

There is plenty of music to wake them up!

Military precision in that marching. Yes, very neat.

Military precision in that marching. very hard. And onto Shaftesbury

Square. Still over half of the distance left to go.

And, again, it is interesting that they did look like it was going to

be very wet but so far, so good. It is actually quite bright and very

dry. And we can see that and, showing Dan Winter's cottage. --

that banner. The BBC has been covering the

Twelfth for over 50 years. This is the first Twelfth of July

parade held in Belfast This is amazing, 50,000 taking part.

Black and Whites images. Look at those horses. And carriages. You do

not see that today. And the immense accompanying cried. That was taken

at Castle Junction, looking up Royal Avenue. And that is Donegall Place.

The reason why there were armoured cars is because Belfast had just

about gone through the bloodiest period in recent history. Between

1920 and the middle of 1922. Everybody wearing hats! And this is

the first Prime Minister, Craig, addressing the demonstration. Must

be the only person without a hat! He would become Lord Craigavon. He had

a major role in reviving the Orange Order and bringing the respectful

classes, the middle classes, the wealthy and the aristocracy, back

into this movement. And when that march took place... 40,000! This is

91923. Again, Donegall Place. All wearing hats, Sunday best.

I especially love the hats and stoles.

Even in July! We do not see any Union Jack dresses! But we can see

Lambeg drums. 1922, the BBC did not, long until the 19 -- 1924. The first

BBC station opened up on radio. Things have changed. We have colour

pictures of the parade in Bedford Street. Back again to Helen.

Wonderful to see that footage. So smartly turned out. Nobody is

wearing anything like that today. I have got Peter and Sally, from

Melbourne in Australia. I am part of the over 60 cricket team. You are on

tour? How is it going? Wonderful, we'll have 15 matches so far! -- we

have one. Wonderful time. The Irish people have been fantastic to us.

What about being here for the parade today? It is very emotional, I

cannot believe the people involved, lots of work to put this together.

Just one of the many memories we will have of this Irish holiday.

Just superb. I love seeing the children. Do you break you dies the

music? Yes, I played one of those songs, it is the theme song of my

favourite football team at home! I cannot remember the name. Good old

Collingwood forever! We know how to play the game! Wonderful. The

passion, especially those drummers, their fifth this and the force that

they put into it. Wonderful dizzy everybody involved. I know Martin

Clark, he does play for Collingwood? One of my favourite players. Number

nine. I know him very well. He has fitted in marvellously. People are

watching this across the world. So your family back there and at five

foot power of hours. -- that fine foot on. -- footballer. You will

have a very nice time for the rest of the day. Lovely to meet you both.

Back to Walter. One century ago, July saw the

outbreak of the First World War. For many lodges with

a direct military connection, this Claire McCollum has been to talk to

some members of two such lodges. Commemorating the centenary of the

outbreak of the First World War is but equally important some lodges,

like this one in Clifton Street. -- particularly. The Ulster division

Memorial was formed in the trenches, really? Tell us about the rich

history. The military Lodge was formed in France and this was after

the Battle of the Somme and when we came back to Belfast, they would

form the lodge of the ex-servicemen. I had the family connection which

brought me to this. My uncle Jackie, who was in the Lodge, and they

carried the logo of the Lodge in their knapsack. My grandfather was

in the First World War. He was at the beachhead. And other members of

the wider family. They gave their lives. Why do you feel it is

important to remember? To forget or not to remember is a sin. I believe

that. The 1st of July was a date when the Ulster division lost the

most men. From the day that this lodge was formed, we have had a

parade to the Cenotaph and we lay a wreath. Hopefully my grandson, one

of them will carry that wreath. These are very special collars. They

remain in the Royal house of needlework in London and you can

see, the battle honours. I am very proud. Gavin Hughes is an authority

on the First World War. It is a very emotional event. It reflects the

story behind this, what previous generations did, this is about the

commemoration of loss. As the black ribbon demonstrates. This lodge

started in the trenches. That is amazing. Yes, it started whilst they

were training to go to the front. And in the trenches they continued

this bond of friendship. When they came home in 1918, it was natural

that they had their shared experience and they joined and

formed lodges, to show solidarity with those who did not come back.

Another Lodge with a direct military connection to the First World War

comes from County Tyrone. We were formed over 150 years ago and we are

currently sitting in the Orange Hall just outside Dungannon. We're

celebrating the Twelfth and we are hosting this in Dungannon and we

have commissioned a small booklet leading up to the war effort in

1914, compiled and written by Robert Buchler, who is a brother within

call island. The book covers Viscount Northland, the commanding

officer of the Ulster Volunteer Force in 1914. We unearthed an old

banger detect in the Battle of the Somme on the front. -- banner. I

designed a bannerette. It was a fitting tribute to all those who

died from the district. I'm dressed in the uniform of the

Enniskillen Fusiliers. The badge is dedicated to the ninth Battalion. It

is all about trying to educate our young people about the relationship

between both communities who fought and died during the First World War.

These are Irishmen and Ulstermen joining before partition. And when

they come back from the war they want their service to be recognised

and to make meaning of it in some way. And we are back again in the

centre of Belfast. It has been a continuous moving spectacle but not

at the moment. As happens every year the parade does take a short break.

And I'm sure that everyone appreciates that after several miles

coming down to the centre of Belfast. And with quite a few miles

still to go. A lot of the families who have come down to watch the

parade going past, of all ages, and in all multicoloured costumes. And

the marchers especially enjoying the break. In amongst everyone there in

the street is Helen. You do not need to stand here for

very long before it you hear a range of accents. I'm from Hamburg in

Germany. And how is it that you are here for this parade? It is the

first day of our summer vacation. We flew to Dublin yesterday and today

we arrived in Belfast. We are here for ten days. Did you come to see

the parade? No, it was a surprise. We planned the trip a few months ago

and just wanted to come to the city and perhaps take a bus tour. What do

you think about it? It is impressive. I remembered it from the

past and it was often reported in the news. So it is surprising that

it is today and it is impressive. It is a lot of colour and spectacle for

people watching for the first time. It is very loud. The rhythm and all

this Orange and I remembered that it was Orange day. They have a long way

to walk, up to Twelfth miles before they get to the Field. It is hard

going. Definitely. We are all hoping that the rain will stay away. That

would be nice. Doctor Jonathan Bardon is still with

me. Looking back to those lodgers who have strong connections with

those who took part in the First World War, there are a lot of

anniversary of the moment and we recently had the D-Day anniversary.

30,000 American troops were on board a great Armada in Belfast Lough in

1944. The Americans had been here since 1941. And at one stage there

were 120,000 Americans in Northern Ireland. That meant that one in

every ten people here was American. Clearly this was an armada on its

way to Normandy. But they did not know when they were going to go.

General Eisenhower flew in. He drove to Lurgan and stayed there and then

came to banker driving down the main street. As he did so his visit was

supposed to be secret but a woman cried out, it is General

Eisenhower! He just waved back and smiled. He then made a tour of the

battleships. Texas, Nevada and Arkansas. He addressed officers and

men on one of the cruisers. They were waiting for a weather report in

Delhi call. Even though the Republic of Ireland was neutral, the weather

service passed on information to Churchill and General Eisenhower.

And he decided to go for it on the 6th of June.

Earlier today... We will take a look at some pictures recorded as the

head of the parade reached us just before we came on air. At the head

of the parade the county grand Orange Lodge of Belfast with the

colour party bearing Memorial standards. Eric Brewster leading

bats. Following the colour party. The Miller Memorial Flute Band. And

the county officers. Scotland is well represented again

this year. Guests including the Deputy Grand Master of the grand

Orange Lodge of Glasgow. Helen McClane, past grand mistress. The

grand treasurer. And the Reverend Malcolm Anderson of the Scottish

grand chapter. District number five with their motto, I will maintain.

And Sandy Row had its first purpose-built Orange Hall in Belfast

from 1868. It was replaced in purpose-built Orange Hall in Belfast

on the site where purpose-built Orange Hall in Belfast

William reportedly camped on their way to the Battle of the Boyne.

And one of the ladies lodgers. So again we are looking at the head of

the parade this morning. That came past just about ten minutes to 11

this morning. So presumably by now they will be getting close to the

Field at Barnett's Demesne. District number five. One of the

largest. 28 lodgers. -- lodges. There was a banner

issues around There was a banner

Belfast. Obviously some strong differences of opinion which many of

you will have seen on the BBC airwaves over recent days.

Again this is the view from the junction of Ormeau Avenue and

Bedford Street. Looking all the way down past the Ulster Hall on the

right. Again those smart uniforms. Those

historic buildings are both linen warehouses. This was the centre of

the linen industry in Belfast where the finished cloth was sold. Even

the linen Hall library itself, the building was originally a linen

warehouse. This was the world centre of the linen industry.

Almost a spring in their step at this stage early in the morning.

The interesting thing about the crowds of spectators

The interesting thing about the that they have been there since

early this morning. They certainly have. Most of them having to stand.

A few people were able to get a seat earlier but they arrived very early.

And of course little children as well stop many amusing themselves by

twirling their polls. And we go back to Markethill Mall.

Well the procession continues on in beautiful Markethill. We spoke

earlier about the community side of things. Here is a man who knows all

about that. We are a community development support network

established to try to get the Orange Halls opened for community

activities. There are a wide range of things going on. And what are

they being used for? We have dance classes, computer classes, different

events for young people. Senior citizen clubs. A wide range of

events. How long have you been involved? Next year will be the 10th

anniversary. And we hope to have a wide programme of events to

celebrate that. We are going to focus on young people. And you also

have done some cross-border work and putting out the hand of friendship.

We have a good working relationship with County Monaghan and we have

engaged in a number of cross-border study projects. We are currently

delivering one project looking at the great famine in Ulster. In terms

of being a community event, the great famine in Ulster. In terms

ground you feel that is a growing thing? Every year it is getting

bigger and better. More and more people are participating. And the

numbers engaged at increasing. There is a sense that families are here

today, Markethill just full of families. Very much a family

friendly location. And last night we had fireworks and re-enact mince. So

you encourage people to get involved and to expand that community input.

It is an important aspect. It is indeed. There's much happening

around the Orange Halls. We are linked in with a cancer charity and

we are encouraging men to take part and get their blood pressure taken.

Do you think some people do not realise that this is all going on,

that there are many community outreach aspects? We have a website

and also a Facebook page and a monthly news sheet. But it is an

ongoing struggle to try to get the message out. There needs to be more

funding for this type of work. We wish you all the best. Thank you for

joining us. And we hand back to Belfast.

Another look now at some pictures recorded earlier as the

wreath-laying ceremony in Belfast City Hall. This is a solemn moment

when the parade takes another break as they come to the City Hall. The

party led by the County Master George Chitty. A very solemn

moment. And the pause in the music and the sounds of The Twelfth in

Belfast. THE LAST POST PLAYS. The Cenotaph. That was George Spence on

the bugle. But was a very solemn moment. -- that was. There is a

pause in the main parade here in Bedford Street. And back to Helen. I

have met a lovely family who have come here today. You will have to

have met a lovely family who have introduce yourselves. Tell me who

everyone is. I am Michelle from Bangor. This is my mother. And this

is my niece. Summer. And then Zach. Courtney, my niece. And my other

niece. Are you Courtney, my niece. And my other

morning? ER in good form. You could be playing football with your

friends today? But it is good to get up early and come down and enjoy

yourself. Do you like this? up early and come down and enjoy

ready good, this is my fifth year in a row. Yes. You said you wanted to

come down? That is great. But it is hard to get up! The noise will keep

you awake. It is really good. I'd just like watching people doing all

of their talents. You are holding your little cousin? Hello. Big

smile. Anyway, thank you for taking just a moment to talk to us. Enjoy

the parade. Back to Walter. Thank you. I think she enjoyed that

conversation. She did not have to talk over the sound of the bands.

Things are taking a break here. We will reason very shortly. Back to

Ralph McClean in Markethill. Thank you. Things are still

happening here. I'm joined by Dr Gavin Hughes. The rain has held off?

It has. Unlike in 1879 when they said that it continuously rained all

day. It has been a marvellous pageant of colour and music.

Absolutely wonderful. What are the highlights? We have had a mix of

styles, lots of things like drum bands, Johnson Memorial with the

Lambeg drum, that was a lovely band. And a lovely drum. But the Royal

Enniskillen Fusiliers. Very different from Belfast. How do you

sum this up? This is a family event, very much for the family. We have

the pipe bands just passing us, very much for the family. We have

is Tandragee district. Finishing. And we have the Lambeg drum is

behind us. They are always a very great feature of the country. You

can feel it in your very heart. In your diaphragm. Thank you for being

with us. Back to Belfast. The headquarters of the Grand Orange

Lodge of Ireland, Schomberg House in Belfast, is benefitting

from over ?3 million of European Peace 3 funds to develop it into an

interpretive centre for Orangeism. Now midway through the construction,

Ralph McClean has been along When I was here Twelfth months ago

the Orange Order had big plans for the headquarters here. These are the

plans for the capital work at Schomberg House. And the design. For

the development of museums and educational resources to encourage

greater understanding about Orangeism. What would you like

people to take from this? We want to use these artefacts to tell the

story of Orangeism and last maths. And about its legacy in the modern

world. We want people to see what will be is part of these centres. I

am back to find out how they are getting on. Twelfth months on,

remind us about the plans. Everything is taking shape, building

as well underway and hopefully we shall have this reception area to

grab the attention and then we have the main body of the museum with the

story from the glorious Revolution through the interpretive centre with

interactive things, through the archive storage and the inside of

the modern Lodge room so people can see what takes place in a modern

Orange Lodge. We must see what it looks like on the site. Let us go.

Let's put the hats on. I was expecting some paint and some

renovation but you have dotted this. This is a major job. This is a major

revamp to build the centre. It is going extremely well at present.

This is going to plan, one-time? Yes, and on target.

Here we are, at the entrance. Not as I remember it, very different.

Massive changes, come inside. This used to be the reception? Yes, this

was and it will be for the museum but the exciting things will take

race upstairs in the exhibition area. This will be the main

exhibition space. Some changes. Changes in development but the main

interactive area will be in here. This will be the main exhibition

area. It is very light, great space. We will exclude all polite but there

will be a very good museum defect. This is where all of the main

interactive things will be with the graphics and the interpretation of

the story of Orangeism. What else can you show me? Some of the work

developing towards the other exhibition space. It is very much a

work in progress. But this will be a very significant part? We have

passed the temporary education space, it might not look like much

but this'll be the entrance to the lecture theatre and to the left, the

entrance to the Lodge room. It is on schedule, but when are we talking

about this? Next April. The doors will be open. I will hold you to

that. Good man, I wish you all the best. Ralph McClean at Schomberg

House and we will stay with the historic theme because our next

guest is Rod Meadow well, from the Clifton Street Orange Hall but there

is an exhibition and museum there? Something that started off as an

interest and became my hobby and a fixture after that. We have a

fixture which tells the story of Orangeism, particularly in Belfast.

And you started this? It is something we have some artefacts

with Abbey brought them to the derelict space in the hall and it

has grown with members contributing banners Abbey tell the story of the

old members who have been there. Do people come to visit? It has become

a very popular thing and we will have a website soon and people can

contact us and we bring in cross community groups and youth groups

and other Orange Lodges. People of all ages? Absolutely. You get old

people in their 90s who recall the old days. And younger ones who come

and they are fixated with the banners and the collar and the

pageantry. Something for everybody. You have your family here as well. I

will let you get back to the parade. Back to Walter. Thank you. The

parade is continuing, these are the last lodges to pass us. We are

towards the end of the main parade. Jonathan is still with me. We were

looking at the development of Schomberg House. It might be a very

good time to remind us who he was. The Duke of Schomberg House troops

of King The Duke of Schomberg House troops

port and there was an Orange Lodge there. And he besieged Carrickfergus

Castle, it was ferocious, and after that, he joined the

Castle, it was ferocious, and after killed. And his name lives on. Yes,

and, in fact, his son played a killed. And his name lives on. Yes,

notable part in that battle as well. As anything surprised you looking at

the parade? You have very often been away at this time of

the parade? You have very often been it has grown. It is bigger and more

colourful. And the uniforms are brighter. I thought that the

bagpipes had disappeared but they are back again. I like to see some

silver and brass bands, perhaps. are back again. I like to see some

it is certainly a very stirring sight. And it is interesting to hear

the reaction of foreign visitors. And there are a lot of visitors

impressed by the spectacle. Yes, it impressed by the spectacle. Yes, it

is the scale of it, it must astonish is the scale of it, it must astonish

them. Well, I am sure they all appreciate the break they had for 15

minutes there. And it is back on the road again. The young lady, a member

of one of the road again. The young lady, a member

there are quite a few this year. -- women's. And the thing to remember

is, as they pass us with another four miles left to go, to the field

at Barnett's Demesne, the ceremonies start at 2:13pm and at 14 PM,

everything goes into reverse. And they go back again.

That's all we have time for, but you can watch this programme

BBC Newsline, Radio Ulster and our online service

will keep you up-to-date with events throughout the day.

I'll be back later this evening with a special Twelfth programme

But for now, from all the team in Markethill and