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Visit of RPB 589 William Haire Memorial, City of Liverpool

Over the St Patrick's day weekend of 17th March 2007, a party of Sir Knights from RBP 589 Liverpool, led by then WM Sir Knight Roy McGregor visited Newtownards.

On the Friday they visited Schomberg House and received an excellent guided tour by Bro. David Scott. That evening at Mary Street Orange Hall we were once again proud and privileged to receive to receive the Glencairn Dancers from County Antrim. As they had done before for us, this group of very dedicated Sir Knights performed a "Black Ball" for the large audience in attendance. The Liverpool Sir Knights took part and a tea was supplied by the ladies, led by Mrs Sharon Hunt.

The Glencairn Dancers perform a 'Black Ball' in Newtownards Orange Hall

On the Saturday we all travelled to Altnaveigh House, where we received a guided tour of our headquarters by David McCusker, son of the late Harold McCuster, MP and PM.

Before leaving Sir Knight Paddy McCready on behalf of the Newtownards Sir Knights presented Black ties depicting Altnaveigh House House to Roy and the Sir Knights. We are very grateful to our Sir Knight McCready for being with us as he has recently been in ill health. After tea in Saintfield we returned to Newtownards for a social evening.

Sir Knight Paddy McCready (on left) presents Black ties to the visiting Sir Knights from Liverpool

This was a very successful weekend of fellowship between the Brethren/Sir Knights of Newtownards and Liverpool and we look forward to many more in the future.

To the Glencairn Dancers, friends who helped with accommodation and catering and in particular Mrs S Hunt for all her help, we are very grateful.

by Samuel McKeag