Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors band have issues a statement announcing that their annual parade through the village of Rasharkin, will this year NOT go ahead on ‘grounds of public health’.
This year would have marked a special milestone for the band, celebrating 40 years on the road.
The statement issued by the band reads:
“As some of you may know we submitted to parade on the 21/08/2020 with a maximum of 30 members in adherence with the current government guidelines, to mark the 40th Anniversary of Ballymaconnelly band and to bring our music to our loyal support in the Village of Rasharkln.
“These plans were made with all good intentions and since our application we have kept continuous track of the ever changing scenarios and stayed up to date with ongoing situations within the village and neighbouring boroughs.. As well as this we have like everyone else, followed our countries progress in emerging from this pandemic with eager enthusiasm and hope.
“Nevertheless when recent news began to filter through regarding increased cases of COVID-19 In surrounding areas, we felt we had to take the immediate step of withdrawing the parade application on the grounds of public health.
“This decision was reached with the health of the whole community in Rasharkin being the mitigating factor. We as a band would not wish anyone to become ill as a result of the band parading to mark our Anniversary.
“We hope all our followers and members of the public appreciate how hard this year has been for all bands and ourselves have been no exception. We ask for your patience and understanding on this decision.
“We in Ballymaconnelly now look towards men year when we hope to be back on parade and marking our milestone, proper. In the meantime everyone please stay safe, save lives.”
