Scaled down Apprentice Boys march underway in Derry/Londondonderry

By Q Radio news

The annual Apprentice Boys parade in Derry/Londonderry is underway.

Only local clubs and bands are being allowed to take part due to the Covid -19 pandemic.

Earlier members and bands walked a circuit of Derry's historic walls before a wreath-laying ceremony at the city's war memorial in the Diamond.

Motorists are advised to expect delays in the area.

Apprentice Boys' General Secretary Billy Moore said that while the march was far from what the organisation desired, current health needs dictated that it would be on a reduced level.

The annual Apprentice Boys parade takes place in Derry/Londonderry today.https://t.co/97cBVCsn3A

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Today's march, which commemorates the end of the 1689 Siege of Derry, will include a parade around the city walls followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the cenotaph before the main parade to the Waterside and back.

Mr Moore said: “We have encouraged members to commemorate the end of the siege in their own areas.

"Following the strict guidelines last year, this year's commemoration is a step in the right direction but it is far from what would be ideal in terms of the governing body or the membership. But we have a duty to protect everyone in the organisation and in our community.

“It would be selfish to do anything else at the moment so this is the best plan.”