Mayor marks Dunloy Accordion Band’s 70 years of music and tradition

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins, has hosted a reception for Dunloy Accordion Band to mark the band’s 70th anniversary.

Formed in 1956, the band draws members from all six counties of Northern Ireland and has earned a reputation as one of the finest marching bands in Northern Ireland.

The band has proudly represented Northern Ireland at events including the London Lord Mayor’s Show and the Glasgow Tattoo, as well as in France and Belgium, where members have paraded at the Menin Gate and taken part in services of remembrance at Thiepval Tower and the Ulster Tower.

Members and friends of the band attended the reception at Cloonavin, where they also performed a short concert for the Mayor.

Mayor, Councillor Dawn Huggins said: “I was honoured to welcome members of Dunloy Accordion Band to Cloonavin.

“Dunloy Accordion Band has a proud and longstanding tradition, and reaching its 70th anniversary is a fantastic achievement.

“For seven decades, the band has played an important role in bringing music and culture to communities across Northern Ireland, while also proudly representing our region on the international stage.

“Their annual parade in Ballymoney is a much-anticipated event which brings people together and creates a wonderful atmosphere in the town, while their support for charitable causes demonstrates the important contribution they make beyond music.

“I would like to congratulate everyone involved with Dunloy Accordion Band on this significant milestone and wish them every success for the years ahead.”