Grand Orange Lodge appeals Stonehaven parade ban

The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland is appealing a decision by Aberdeenshire Council to block a parade in Stonehaven.

It was planned for 16 March to mark the opening of a new orange lodge in the area.

But earlier this week a council committee voted to stop the event.

An online petition calling for the council to stop the march received thousands of signatures.

Some residents they were concerned it would bring public disorder and force local shops and pubs to shut for the day.

Around 200 people were expected to take part in the procession, led by the Pride of the Rock flute band from Dumbarton.

The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland said it was working with its legal team to organise a hearing at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

In a statement it said: "Our organisation intends to hold a peaceful and respectful procession which will pass by any given point in under five minutes.

"There is no threat whatsoever to public order from the Orange Lodge members within the procession."

Aberdeenshire Council confirmed it had received formal notice of an appeal.

A spokesperson said: “The prohibition order itself is currently being finalised and will be shared with the organisers as soon as possible.”