Thousands take part in Relief of Derry parade

Thousands of people in Londonderry are taking part in the annual Apprentice Boys’ Relief of Derry parade on Saturday.

It is one of the biggest loyal order parades in Northern Ireland and marks the anniversary of the ending of the Siege of Derry in 1689.

Around 10,000 Apprentice Boys and 124 bands are making their way around the city’s historic walls as part of the parading of the wall’s ceremony.

Then, following the wreath-laying ceremony at the war memorial in the Diamond, the procession will go to St Columb’s Cathedral for a religious service before the main parade.

The Relief of Derry parade is held on the second Saturday in August each year, to commemorate the ending of the 105-day siege of the city in August 1689.

It took place against the background of an attempt by the deposed Catholic King James II to regain his crown from his Protestant son-in-law, King William III.

Also known as William of Orange, or King Billy, the new monarch was supported by Protestants in Derry, who shut the gates of the walled city to keep out the advancing Jacobite army.

The ending of the siege is known as the Relief of Derry.

Speaking ahead of the event, the governor of the Apprentice Boys of Derry, William Walker, said marking the Siege of Derry was still relevant today.

“I think it’s very important that everybody learns the history of why the Apprentice Boys are here,” he said.

“It’s not just about flags, drums, and bands.

“It’s about the significance of what the brave 13 [Apprentice Boys] did – what the people endured during the 105 days of the siege.”

Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle’s North West Today programme, Mr Walker said the event attracted people from “all walks of life” and they had done a lot of work to make the event more inclusive.

“We want everyone to come here and feel safe and comfortable to sit and watch the parade,” he said.

“Where we have come from to now has been a vast improvement, and I commend all the hard work that has been done in the past.”

Mr Walker said the Apprentice Boys of Derry had spoken to the police and other agencies to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Cannon Firing (midnight)

Celebrations begin at midnight on the second Saturday in August with cannon fire on the Walls by members of the Parent Club and the Crimson Players.

Parading the Walls (9:30 BST)

Eight parent clubs, led by the General Committee and bands, parade around the Walls.

Service of Thanksgiving (10:30)

A public service is held at St. Columb’s Cathedral, open to all brethren, band members and the public.

Relief of Derry Pageant (12:00)

About 10,000 Apprentice Boys and 124 bands will parade through the city, starting at Craigavon bridge, passing through the city centre, Fountain estate, Waterside and concluding at May Street.

Return Parade (17:00)

The parent clubs and general committee return the colours to the memorial hall. The parade moves from May Street via Spencer Road and Craigavon Bridge, through the Walled City.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has said a number of road closures will be in place throughout the day.

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and take extra care on diversionary routes.

There will be no on-street parking along the parade route; parked cars cannot be moved until the parade has passed.

The top deck of Craigavon Bridge will be closed during the parade, while the lower deck will remain open but with access only onto Victoria Road.

The section from Craigavon Bridge to Dales Corner will be closed to general traffic, with access permitted for parade buses only.

Officers will be deployed throughout the city to help with any traffic issues.