“LAST weekend saw periods of torrential rain right across the Province, however even the most extreme weather conditions don’t stop band processions, as was clearly illustrated with events going ahead in counties Down, Antrim and Tyrone.

“THE Steeple Estate in Antrim was the centre of a massive event last Saturday afternoon, the occasion being the annual band procession and fun day of the Steeple Defenders Flute.

“LAST Saturday night the Aghalee Young Volunteers Flute were the hosts at the weekend’s only marching band procession.

“THE Fermanagh capital of Enniskillen was the first port of call for many bands last weekend, as the season slowly starts to gather pace.

“The calendar which is within the Drumbeat Section of the Newsletter will be published on the 19th of April.

“AS the main band season approaches, outfits across Northern Ireland are practising hard, tweaking and fixing uniforms, and in general preparing themselves for the busy six months ahead.

“THE evening of St Patrick’s Day has now become accepted as the start of the Northern Ireland band season, with the first two band processions of the year taking place on the date.