WORK has begun to replace an Orange hall that was burnt down in an arson attack near the border in Co Donegal.
Senior Orangemen yesterday joined lodge members to lay the foundation stone for a new hall in Newtowncunningham.
The hall was badly damaged in a fire in 2014. It had also been the target of a minor arson attack in 2010.
Grand Master Edward Stevenson yesterday led what was described as a "symbolic ceremony in the construction phase of the new building".
It is expected to be completed by the spring of next year.
In a significant occasion for Newtowncunningham True Blues LOL 1063, the lodge also unfurled a new banner replacing one which was lost in the fire three years ago.
Deputy master Stewart McClean said both events marked a "tremendous moment" in the distinguished history of the east Donegal lodge.
"It is fitting the foundation stone was laid by the Grand Master of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland in this year which is the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. The foundation stone will act as permanent tribute to Martin Luther and the other reformers who have given us the reformed faith which is the basis of the Orange Institution," he said.
Mr Stevenson added: "Despite much adversity, lodge members are to be commended for their perseverance and resilience."
