Crowds turned out in their droves for the Twelfth celebrations in Armagh today – the largest of the 18 demonstrations taking place across Northern Ireland.
Spectators began lining the street from as early as 8am – bedecked in their Union colours, many taking comfort in their seasonal camping chairs; umbrellas at the ready too.
Fortunately, mother nature was kind for the young and young at heart, many of whom sought out the best vantage point – as did the camera crews – at Gaol Square.
For the first time in recent years the BBC opted against covering the event live, however, GB News took up the mantle with coverage headed by the former First Minister, Dame Arlene Foster.
While Ms Foster commanded proceedings from the makeshift studio at the corner of Victoria Street and Barrack Hill, actor Charlie Lawson of Coronation Street fame, mingled with people on the ground as part of the colourful coverage.
Speaking on GB News, Orange Order Grandmaster Denis Watson, said it was “great” to get back into Armagh City after the Covid hiatus.
“Today will see the Orange men all regaled either in collarettes or some will be wearing sashes,” he said.
“It is a very traditional day it is a day for families to meet and renew acquaintances. It is great to get back into Armagh City today.
“We are the largest gathering of Orangemen anywhere in the world and we are very proud of that. We are glad to say the roots of Orangeism are quite firmly established in Armagh.”
