News

Loyalists apply for extra march

LOYALISTS plan to march through central Belfast less than a fortnight before Christmas.

An Orange Order lodge from Sandy Row has applied to the Parades Commission to march down Royal Avenue towards a north Belfast interface. Marchers want to parade between 1.30pm and 3pm on Saturday December 14 - traditionally one of the busiest shopping days before Christmas. According to the commission's website, the number of expected bands, participants or supporters is unknown.

The commission is expected to make a ruling on the parade on December 3.

In September 1,000 loyalists held an illegal parade through the city centre.

Royal Avenue was brought to a standstill as up to 20 bands and their supporters made their way to Shankill Road.