Knox Loyal Orange Lodge (LOL 1841), from Newtownbutler won the Best Banner award at last week-end's annual Community Awards of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland which were held in Bessbrook.

It was one of two Orange lodges nominated for the event which was attended by the Grand Master of the Orange Lodges of Ireland, Robert Saulters.

"This is one of our biggest and most important indoor events', he said, "and I am delighted to see so many people here. We would hope that it will continue to grow. Our aim is to take it around the Province every year."

Mr Saulters added there was 'an incredible amount of work' done within the Orange Order Institution, much of it unseen and he said the awards' Night provided an opportunity to pay tribute to those people who had made a difference to their communities'.

The competition for the Best New Banner of the Year always attracts major interest and, this year there were eight nominations, including Ballinamallard True Blues LOL 439 and Knox LOL 1841.

It is the third time the event has been held. Dr David Hume, the Director of Services of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, explained that the event would pay tribute to the work being done by lodges and Orangeman all over Northern Ireland.

"It provides," he said, "an opportunity to highlight the work they do and give them recognition.

"There is usually a bit of competition and rivalry to see who wins the awards, and that can only be a positive thing."