The annual Orange Lodge "Twelfth" Parade (335th Anniversary)

ON Saturday, 12 July 2025, the English Seaside Town of Southport once again played host to the annual Orange Lodge Parade, a vibrant and deeply significant event for Irish Protestant communities. Large crowds gathered along the Merseyside coastline, just North of the world famous City of Liverpool, to witness bands, elaborate banners, and participants in traditional costumes march through the Town Centre in both morning and afternoon processions.

The Parade, officially known as the Battle of the Boyne Demonstration, commemorates a pivotal moment in:- 1690, when the Protestant King William III's army decisively defeated that of the deposed Catholic King James II. For members of the Orange Order, this victory secured Protestant freedoms and the Protestant line of succession to the British Crown, a heritage proudly upheld through these annual commemorations.

However, the celebrations are not without their complexities. The event often necessitates a significant presence from Merseyside Police, reflecting its controversial nature. For some, particularly within Catholic and Irish nationalist communities, the parades are viewed as sectarian and triumphalist, given their historical connections and symbolism. Despite this, organizers emphasize the cultural and historical importance of the day for their participants.

The roots of the Orange Lodge in the region run deep, with an integral presence in Liverpool's social fabric since the early 1800s. The 1st "Twelfth" Parade in Liverpool took place in:- 1819, and the tradition of marching to Southport evolved from these early gatherings. Originally conceived as a:- "day out" for members of the Liverpool Provincial Grand Orange Lodge, and a means to keep the memory of the 1690 Battle of the Boyne alive, Southport's appeal as a well known Seaside Town with attractions like Pleasureland made it an ideal and popular destination for a large scale celebration and social gathering.

Looking ahead, the Southport demonstration is already scheduled for:-

"Twelfth" Parade:- Sunday, 12 July 2026, from:- 10 am to 4 pm.
"Twelfth" Parade:- Monday, 12 July 2027, from:- 10 am to 4 pm.

Further information regarding parade dates and details can be obtained from the Ulster Bands Forum, Grand Orange Lodge of England Events calendar, available at:- UlsterBandsForum.Com.

A Lodge member, speaking on the significance of the occasion, shared:- "The Southport Orange Lodge Parade is a significant cultural and historical event for all our participants, serving both as a commemoration of heritage and a social gathering. We look forward to coming to the Town every year."

The parade is a truly national and sometimes international affair. While branches of the Liverpool Provincial Grand Orange Lodge are key participants, the event also draws Orange Lodge branches from across England, including:- Manchester, Sunderland, London, Corby, Birmingham, and Sussex. On occasion, guests from:- Scotland, Northern Ireland, and even the USA join the ranks, underscoring the broad reach and shared traditions of the Orange Order. The vibrant display of banners, the stirring sounds of pipe and drum bands, and the camaraderie among participants transform Southport's streets into a hub of cultural expression for the day.

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West Derby Recs Bowling Club Seeks New Members to Join Historic Sport

WEST Derby Recreation Bowling Club, a cornerstone of the local community since its founding in 1891, is actively seeking new members to experience the enduring appeal of bowls. Located on Mill Lane (L12 7JA), this historic club offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages, genders, abilities, and experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned veterans.

Bowls, often known as lawn bowls or lawn bowling, is a sport with roots stretching back an astonishing 7,000 years, making it one of the world's oldest recreational pastimes. The modern game involves players strategically rolling their "bowl" closest to a smaller target ball, the "jack" or "kitty." Beyond this seemingly simple objective, bowls is a game of skill, precision, and tactical thinking.

More than just a sport, playing Crown Green Bowls, at West Derby Recs offers a wealth of health and social benefits. Participants can expect to improve fitness levels through enhanced muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance. The outdoor setting and engaging nature of the game are known to boost mental well being, helping to:- alleviate stress, depression, and anxiety. Bowls also sharpens coordination and problem-solving skills, fostering concentration and mental agility.

The club emphasizes the significant social advantages, noting that playing bowls is an excellent way to build confidence and increase social interaction, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. For those looking to manage weight, an average game can burn at least 200 calories. Furthermore, joining a league instills discipline through the commitment of punctual attendance.

West Derby Recs Bowling Club is committed to making the sport accessible to everyone, including those with long term disabilities. They provide bowls lessons and supply equipment for beginners, ensuring a smooth entry into this engaging activity. Beyond the greens, members can enjoy a relaxed, stress-free environment in the clubhouse, complete with tea and biscuits, perfect for socializing after a friendly match or practice session. (Though, as members jokingly note, "stress free" might not always apply during competitive matches!)

For anyone interested in learning new skills, enjoying gentle physical activity in the open air, and becoming part of a friendly community, West Derby Recs Bowling Club extends a warm invitation.

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Pat Hughes on:- 07811779760, or via email at:- Pat.YoursTruly@BTInternet.Com.

More information can also be found on their Facebook Page.

The club's specific location is West Derby Recs Bowling Club, Mill Lane, L12 7JA (please note this is distinct from West Derby Bowling Club on Hayman�s Green)..

News reports located on this page = 2.

The annual Orange Lodge "Twelfth" Parade (335th Anniversary)

West Derby Recs Bowling Club Seeks New Members to Join Historic Sport