Letters to the Editor, ‘South Down Defenders Newry parade a spectacle of colour’
Dear Editor,
South Down Defenders F.B. Newry held its annual parade and competition in Newry on Friday night with a total of 43 bands traversing the route.
The Belfast Road / Sandy’s Street area of the town came alive to the sound of music and a spectacle of colour as the various bands from across Northern Ireland supported the highly travelled host band.
Bands converged upon Newry from Dunloy, Enniskillen and further afield to compete in the respective categories and they in turn provided an excellent backdrop of music for the spectators who lined the streets.
It is testament to the band scene in Newry and Mourne council area that a total of 13 bands from the area were on parade with notable performances from Annalong Single Star and Bessbrook True Blues.
Other outstanding acts came from the south Armagh bands Tullyvallen Silver, Newtownhamilton and the ever impressive Keady based Drumderg F.B.
The bands who triumphed in the main categories were Clogher F.B., Warringstown (best large flute and overall band on parade), Loyal Sons of Benagh, Newry (best local band) and Dunloy Accordian (Best Accordian).
The host band South Down Defenders F.B., Newry are now planning for the 2013 event, which is undoubtedly the largest annual marching band spectacle in Newry.
South Down Defenders F.B. Newry
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