Kyle congratulates Portrush Sons of Ulster on spectacular parade night amid media scrutiny

Portrush Sons of Ulster

Image: Paul Berry

TUV Causeway Councillor Allister Kyle has issued a robust statement praising the Portrush Sons of Ulster Flute Band for what he called a “spectacular evening” during their annual parade on Saturday night, 19 July.

Despite widespread media speculation ahead of the event — particularly regarding its timing during The Open golf championship — Kyle affirmed that the night passed off without incident, with large crowds and an enthusiastic atmosphere in the seaside town.

“Well done to the committee and members of Portrush Sons of Ulster on a spectacular evening,” Kyle stated.

He criticised what he described as a “frenzy of manufactured hysteria” from some media outlets, adding:

“The smartly presented seaside town flute band just wanted to be left alone to do what they do every year.”

Kyle revealed that following the event, he spoke directly to the Police Service of Northern Ireland, who confirmed there had been no incidents linked to the parade, contrary to earlier media speculation.

TUV Causeway Councillor Allister Kyle

The TUV councillor also discussed his role representing the band in months-long discussions with the Royal & Ancient (R&A) and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. He noted that while the R&A initially described themselves as “guests in our town and community,” some local residents felt “marginalised and even vilified by media outlets, including Golf Digest.”

He addressed criticism that the band refused to reschedule or delay the event:

“The band fraternity is massive throughout Northern Ireland… If they had cancelled or postponed, they could have lost their slot to another band.”

“11pm is the latest any parade can go on in a built-up area… With the number of bands expected, 8.30pm was the latest start time possible.”

Ballykeel Loyal Sons of Ulster parading in Portrush

Image: William Humphrey

Kyle also criticised the R&A’s shift in tone during the discussions:

“The R&A repeatedly told us they were guests… yet later offered money to cancel the parade, and this offer was then leaked to the press.”

He claimed this backfired and galvanised support across the band fraternity, resulting in increased participation rather than a diminished turnout.

“The band made practical compromises without asking for anything in return. They made logistical changes, adjusted the parade route, and delayed the starting time.”

Jim Allister MP praises “Great display of Ulster culture”

Also attending the event was TUV Party Leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister, who echoed Councillor Kyle’s sentiments and extended his congratulations to the host band.

“What a fantastic parade in Portrush tonight. Great display of Ulster culture. Much appreciated by the huge crowds. What a weekend Portrush is having! Congratulations Portrush Sons of Ulster Flute Band on organising such a successful event,” said Mr Allister.

He described the evening as a celebration of heritage and community pride, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, and added that the impressive turnout demonstrated the strong public support for the event.

Large crowds lined the streets of the North Antrim coastal town, with many staying on after attending The Open during the day. The well-organised event, featuring more than 80 bands, concluded shortly before 11pm.