A new working group, established in Ards to deal with anti-social behaviour that has sometimes marred band parades, is taking action to tackle issues raised by the local community, including parade organisers and participants.
The move has been prompted by concerns over drinking, littering and unruly behaviour at parades, particularly by some who come to watch but who are not directly involved in the events themselves. The working group, co-ordinated by Ards Borough Council and the PSNI with representatives of the Orange Order and Apprentice Boys as well as local bands also involved, has already met on several occasions and hopes its work will help to address anti-social behaviour issues.
“There was some concern last year at the level of anti-social behaviour around a number of these parades,” said Richard Brittain, Borough Inspector with the Council. “With the Ards Borough hosting around 7 contests every year, we are working in partnership now at the planning stages to ensure that everyone involved, whether that’s the Council, the police or the bands themselves, all deliver the right messages to participants and spectators and ultimately reduce problems that sometimes occur at these events”.
The Band Parades Working Group announcement comes ahead of the first scheduled band parade in Ards at the end of April. Anyone who would like further information should contact Richard Brittain, Borough Inspector with Ards Borough Council, Tel: 028 9182 4005.
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