SLIEVE Croob Ulster Unionist councillor Alan Lewis has urged the local community to stay at home for this year’s Twelfth celebrations.
The call comes as parades involving single bands have been confirmed as taking place in Clough, Ballygowan and Comber on Monday.
The Ulster Unionist had this message for those who normally attend the celebrations: “The music will come to you.”
Cllr Lewis also urged caution in resuming large gatherings outside as “the risk caused by coronavirus is still too high”.
He said: “We are only just getting to the position that we can re-open public spaces, cafes, restaurants, pubs and businesses.
“We cannot risk a second peak and must not do anything to jeopardise all the sacrifices which have already been made right across Northern Ireland.”
He stressed that while several bands were parading, it did not mean it was a “free for all”.
“I ask that supporters respect the band, by not following the band, staying in their gardens or car and adhering to social distancing,” advised the councillor.
“I commend those bands who have sensibly put in place measures to ensure expression of our culture is celebrated with caution.”
He added that the Grand Lodge of Ireland and The Schomberg Society had both launched radio stations and planned a programme of events to ensure that people can take part in this year’s Twelfth celebrations from the safety of their own homes.