Orange Order puts in early plea to march

Published on Wednesday 14 January 2009 09:19

THE Orange Order has submitted plans to hold two parades in Midlothian this June after complaining that council chiefs took four months to consider last year's march requests.

Midlothian Council banned an procession in Penicuik last summer, citing fears that it could lead to public disorder. And a sheriff rejected claims the ban violated their human rights. Members planned to lodge an appeal but ran out of time, claiming that the council had taken four months to reach its decision.

Now the Midlothian District Loyal Orange Institution of Scotland has reportedly told Midlothian Council it proposes two processions – in Bonnyrigg and Penicuik – each with around 160 participants and a band, on June 27.

The first will start in Bonnyrigg at 9.15am followed by wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial in Bonnyrigg Public Park. The second will set off from Queensway, Penicuik, at 5pm. A wreath will be laid at war memorial in Penicuik Public Park before the marchers head for Penicuik Town Hall.

The requests will now be considered by council chiefs.