Commenting after attending the parade, local DUP MP Carla Lockhart said:

“This was an amazing evening and full credit must go to the South West Down Area Conference for the huge amount of work that was undertaken to ensure everyone had a safe, enjoyable evening of celebration. The town looked fantastic, and the carnival atmosphere was one that will live long in the memory.

So many lodges and bands took to the streets to showcase our rich culture, and the colour and music was enjoyed by the thousands of spectators who lined the streets. All ages could be seen taking in the parade, and on parade, something that bodes well for the strength of the Loyal Orders for the future.

A special word of thanks must go to Stuart Magill and David Watson who I know always go the extra mile to ensure events such as this are memorable occasions in Banbridge. This was certainly a spectacle to remember as we mark this historic moment in our nation’s history.”