Thousands descend on Co Down village for infamous Scarva sham fight
It's one of the major events in the parading calendar and follows the twelfth of July.
Tens of thousands descended on a County Down village for the annual Scarva sham fight today.
It's one of the major events in the parading calendar and follows the twelfth of July.
Scarva is known for hosting the biggest one-day event at a location in Northern Ireland.
The streets of Scarva were lined with thousands of families ready to welcome the parade from Gilford road to Scarvagh House, before watching the infamous sham fight.
The grand parade was made up of around 4000 members of the Royal Black Institution.
The fight is a mock battle between rival monarchs William and James.
Following todays celebrations, Sovereign Grand Master Rev William Anderson said:
"The Royal Black Institution was delighted to welcome the tens of thousands of visitors to Scarva for yet another hugely successful event, which saw the institution bear public witness to the Reformed Christian faith.
"We say a big thank-you to all who travelled to Scarva, from near and far, to witness the pageantry and spectacle of the traditional event.
"The members of the Sir Alfred Buller RBP 1000 must be commended for their diligence and dedication in organising this large-scale cultural event at Scarva, as well as the tidy-up of the Demesne after the crowds had left.
“Their sterling efforts continue to ensure that the 13th of July at Scarva is one of the major cultural events in the parading calendar.
“The event attracts the highest calibre of musicians from the marching bands community and the day would not be the same without their invaluable contribution.”