Apprentice Boys Parade Proceeds Despite Storm Darragh’s Impact

The Apprentice Boys of Derry’s parade proceeded as scheduled in Londonderry; however, attendance experienced a reduction due to Storm Darragh and the suspension of train and bus services. William Walker, the recently appointed governor, stated that numerous members could not participate because of travel impediments. Prior to Saturday’s parade, officers and general committee members convened to assess the weather. A subsequent decision determined that severe wind gusts rendered it unsafe to proceed with burning the customary Lundy effigy. Mr Walker indicated that the burning ceremony would take place sometime before December 18. The yearly Shutting of the Gates commemorations in Londonderry draw thousands of Apprentice Boys. This march observes the anniversary of the city’s 17th-century siege, commemorating an incident referred to as the “shutting of the gates,” when 13 apprentices secured the walled city’s entrances against the advancing forces of the Catholic King James II in December 1688. The siege endured for 105 days, resulting in over 10,000 fatalities, predominantly civilians. Approximately 25 bands were scheduled to participate in a procession through the city, culminating in the customary burning of an effigy of Lt Col Robert Lundy, who is identified as Lundy the Traitor for his proposal to capitulate to the Jacobite army. On Saturday, visiting branch clubs gathered at the North-West Transport Hub in the Waterside, setting off for the initial parade around 11:30 GMT. The procession path guided clubs and bands over the upper level of Craigavon Bridge towards the Apprentice Boy’s Memorial Hall. The principal parade commenced at 13:15 GMT throughout the city centre, concluding with a remembrance service at St Columb’s Cathedral. The concluding parade started approximately 15:15 GMT and concluded in the Waterside. Saturday’s proceedings included the official installation of Mr Walker, who is succeeding Graeme Stenhouse in the role. Mr Walker expressed that assuming the governorship of the Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry constituted a significant honour. He stated, “It is humbling to reflect on being just the most recent in a long line of governors that stretches back more than two hundred years, and with an Apprentice Boys heritage of more than three hundred years.” He also extended gratitude to Mr Stenhouse for the “handing over of an organisation in good health.” Mr Stenhouse informed BBC News NI that the association is expected to “continue to grow from strength to strength” during Mr Walker’s term, adding that after serving seven years in the role, he can depart with his “head held high.” He remarked, “I didn’t realise the amount of work when I first took over; there is an awful lot of dedication that is required, and you are having to deal with things on a week-to-week basis.” He concluded, “It’s been an honour and a privilege for myself to occupy such a significant position in the organisation, and I will look back on my time fondly.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.