It is hard to believe that this year marks the 19th anniversary of Brian’s murder, many a man or young man at this parade today where probably not even born and can only wonder as to the reason why he was murdered but that is not for this site to disclose.

A large turnout of bands attended, from what I heard it was around 56 or so on this great day weather wise.

Plenty of Scottish bands on show today, Greengairs Thistle looked impressive today as did Cambuslang Volunteers. Plenty of local bands on show, Shankill Star looking and playing well as did Shankill Protestant Boys and the Whiterock.

Crowds where on the up this year but I am sure that the good weather played its part today and it was also good to see Highfield Loyalists from Liverpool back in Belfast.

The parade took 2 hours to pass and it flowed at a steady pace and all the bands done themselves proud today and with the 20th anniversary coming up next year the bands are already making plans for this!

Our own band today walked with 16 side drummers, 28 flute corps, colour party of 7 on a Saturday afternoon we like a lot of bands usually struggle but I am glad to say we got a decent size of band out.

We walked today at the back of the parade for us no other reason for this as over the years this parade has been tried and tested it suits us to be one of the last bands a good clear run up the Shankill Road.

Our own performance today was in my book better than the night before so I am pleased with that, anyway the band enjoyed the parade this year and where very well received up the Shankill Road and I hope that the Robinson family were pleased with the turnout of bands that the occasion deserved.

For God and Ulster.

John Keenan
East Belfast Protestant Boys Flute Band Chairman

If you would like to give your own opinions on the above parade please register and use the EBPB Online Forum, your contribution to the Forum is always welcome.