Lodges, individual brethren and sisters gathered in Ballynahinch for the institution’s annual community awards.

Now in its seventh year, the Grand Lodge of Ireland initiative recognises members deemed to have done most to benefit people in their localities.

The event was attended by the institution’s Grand Master Edward Stevenson, who presented an award to brethren from the Republic.

Chosen by the senior Orangeman himself, members of Newtowncunningham True Blues LOL 1063 were recipients of the Grand Master’s Achievement Award for their exceptional fundraising efforts that led to the building of a new Orange Hall in Co Donegal.

Other winners included brethren from Banbridge Bible and Crown Defenders LOL 423, who raised more than £60,000 for the Help for Heroes charity last year. They helped carry a Lambeg drum from Carrickfergus to the Boyne.

Cookstown-based Sandholes LOL 274 won the best new banner award for their banner which depicts the signing of the Ulster Covenant in 1912.

Director of services for the Grand Lodge David Hume said this year’s community awards were a huge success.

He said: “In the seven years we have held the awards, we had our biggest crowd ever and there were more nominations than ever before.

“It is very important that Orangemen are recognised for the work they do in their communities, often quietly in the background.”

And he added: “All those nominated and the winners deserve congratulations for the way they help other people.