Thousands take part in Orange Order marches

Published on Saturday 3 July 2010 17:33

THOUSANDS of marchers turned out yesterday for an annual Orange Order parade through Glasgow city centre.

The parade started in Glasgow's Blythswood Square just after 10.30am and up to 8,000 people and 90 bands took part.

Orange Order marches were also taking place in other parts of Scotland.

In Greenock more than 2,000 people gathered from 78 lodges in the area at 11.30am for the start of the march to Battery Park.

Alex McCaig, county grand secretary for Ayrshire, Renfrewshire and Argyll, took part.

He said: "The locals are very friendly and there has been no trouble.

"It's very important to hold these annual marches because it is part of the history of Scotland.

"This year is also the 450th anniversary of the Scottish Reformation and we have banners with that on as well."

Police said laws against anti-social behaviour and street drinking would be "vigorously enforced", with on-the-spot fines for drinking or urinating in public.

Strathclyde Police Assistant Chief Constable Fiona Taylor said anti-social behaviour by a "boorish minority" would only spoil the day for everyone.

"I can assure the public that along with the event's organisers and Glasgow City Council, we are working towards the safe passage of this parade with minimal disruption to the Glasgow community and businesses," she added.

The Orange Order is a Protestant fraternal organisation based mainly in Scotland and Northern Ireland.