Incessant heavy rain failed to spoil the annual Blackmen's day which, this year, was held in Lisnaskea, the parade through the town ending in the assembly field at Cushwash.

It was the Royal Black Institution's traditional August parade and rally and it attracted hundreds of Preceptory members and bandsmen, including members from Preceptories in Monaghan, Cavan, Donegal and Leitrim who joined the 20 Fermanagh Preceptories. In addition, there were visiting Preceptories from Tyrone, Down and Antrim.

This year's commemorative theme was the Battle of Newtownbutler at which, in 1689, the Williamite forces had the upper hand over the Jacobites who, it is estimated, lost 2,000 men around Upper Lough Erne.

People lined the streets of Lisnaskea as the parade of bandsmen and marchers went past; in front officers of the Fermanagh Grand Black Chapter and, at their head, the Royal Black Institution's Sovereign Grand Master, William Logan, who gave the main address.

The religious service took place at Cushwash where the prayers were led by Rev. George Browne, Cavan.