Orange Lodge says residents have 'nothing to fear' from Gourock parade

THE Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland says Gourock residents have ‘nothing to fear’ from its near-3,000 members who are set to descend on the town today as part of a controversial Boyne parade.

Flute bands and thousands of participants will walk from Battery Park through several nearby streets after Inverclyde councillors decided to let the event go ahead without any restrictions.

Objectors have raised fears that the procession will make the area a ‘no-go zone’, with some opponents claiming ‘anti-social behaviour’ and ‘loutish activities’ could ‘risk poisoning our peaceful environment’.

However, the organisation has hit back, stating that spectators can expect a ‘magnificent display’ celebrating members’ culture.

In a letter, titled ‘Peaceful co-existence’ and shared on the Loyal Orange Institution of Scotland’s Facebook page with the caption ‘Common sense has prevailed’, the Grand Orange Lodge said: “We are glad that the council has upheld the right of freedom of peaceful assembly but regret that this unnecessary step had to even be considered by the local councillors.

READ MORE: 'Disaster waiting to happen': Objections to plans for 'divisive' Orange parade

“We reassure the citizens of Greenock and Gourock that they have absolutely nothing to fear of our peaceful and respectful procession, which has taken place regularly in the Inverclyde region since 1967, with no threat whatsoever to public order from the Orange Lodge members within the procession.

“We are confident with the renowned experience and marshalling skills and responsible behaviour that our members display on parade, coupled with the expertise of Police Scotland in these matters, that – as always – the outcome will result in a peaceful procession that will not disturb the tranquility of the residents of Greenock and Gourock.”

David Walters, executive officer for the organisation, told the Telegraph that around 36 bands will accompany the county, district and private lodges during the parade.

He added: “I would reiterate that the good people of Greenock and Gourock have nothing to fear from the good Orangemen, Orangewomen and band members celebrating their culture.

“They will experience a magnificent display which shows the diversity and unique aspects of the biblical, historical, and cultural images of the reformed and British way of life.”