Northern Ireland

Co Down flute band expels two members after alleged drug-taking on Twelfth

The pair in full band uniform were filmed in a back alley
The pair in full band uniform were filmed in a back alley The pair in full band uniform were filmed in a back alley

Two members of a Co Down flute band have been expelled amid alleged drug-taking on the Twelfth day.

Bangor Protestant Boys Flute Band said it had made the decision after two of its members engaged in “conduct which is unacceptable in any context”.

It came after video footage shared on social media appeared to show two men snorting a substance during Wednesday's Twelfth celebrations.

The pair, who were in full band uniform, were filmed surreptitiously in a back alley snorting the unidentified substance from a so-called snuff spoon.

It is understood the footage was taken in Belfast City Centre.

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Police unable to confirm investigation into alleged drug-taking by Twelfth bandsmen

In a statement on Saturday, Bangor Protestant Boys Flute Band said the two men had been "expelled from the band and their uniforms returned".

“The band officers have become aware of footage circulating showing two band members engaged in conduct which is unacceptable in any context, let alone whilst wearing the uniform of our band and walking behind the standards we proudly carry," the band told the Belfast Telegraph.

“We have a zero-tolerance in regards the usage or distribution of drugs and therefore both members - who only recently joined - have been summarily expelled from the band and their uniforms returned.

“These actions do not represent the values of our band, or genuine loyalism, and in order to prevent any such repeat we have initiated a process of putting in place a more robust vetting system to ensure all prospective band members understand, agree with and will adhere to the standards expected of those who wear our uniform.

“We will be making no further comment on this issue and now consider the matter concluded.”

Police have said they are aware of the footage on social media and inquiries were continuing.