Goldsprings Parade - 24/07/10



The parade tonight always has talking points, mostly good thankfully. Weather wise it turned out very warm.

Around 35 bands turned out which is a great testament to all in the holiday mood. A large crowd as always around the bridge near the end of the route. unfortunatley not always friendly. I feel the Goldsprings band need to get to grips with this before it gets out of hand. Goldsprings at this time of year attracts bands from across the Ards/Lower Ards direction. Bands that after the 12th need another wee run out.

Newtownards Protestant Boys, Crimson Star Comber, Ballywalter, Ballyhalbert, Donaghadee Flutes and Drums etc. It was good to see them on the up.

Below is a selection of photographs of the band in action.

Colour party Drum corp Bass drum


Here is clips of the band in action:
CLIP 1 - CLIP 2 - CLIP 3 - CLIP 4 - CLIP 5

Tonight we were awarded:
2nd Blood & Thunder
2nd Drum Corp
1st Bass Drum
3rd Drum Major
2nd Colour Party
3rd Overall


Newtownards Volunteer flute in good numbers and joining up with the Newtownards Protestant Boys under the bridge, a hell of a level of noise. The parade flowed around the country town nicely. I like coming down the hill into the square and into the tight streets. The noise levels always increase here as bands try to impress the judges.

South Belfast Young Conquerors up in numbers tonight as were the improved Gertrude star.

We paraded 7 of a colour party, 2 drum majors, 14 drummers, 3 bass drummers, 26 flautists and marshalls. We played very well with our band captain calling our newer tunes to keep us on our toes.

Well done Goldprings.

John Keenan
East Belfast Protestant Boys Flute Band Chairman

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