A terrifying masked loyalist 'colour party' hit the streets yesterday (Saturday) in
support of a flute band named UFF.
But Ulster First Flute - a subtle variation on the name of terror group
Ulster Freedom Fighters - were told by cops they'd have to remove the masks
if they wanted to be allowed to continue.
Stewards moved in and asked those in the balaclavas to take them off.
The notorious band, which is based in loyalist Sandy Row, south Belfast,
agreed to the request with some members saying they had been expecting it.
Other paramilitary trappings, including a gun-toting, masked teddy bear,
were also on display at the controversial venue, on the edges of republican
west Belfast.
The UFF band were taking part in a parade at the Suffolk Estate in the
Black's Road area of the city.
More than 30 bands went along to the event organised by the Upper Falls
Protestant Boys and the paramilitary trappings appeared despite a Parades
Commission ruling against provocative clothing.
More than 1,000 supporters turned up for the event yesterday afternoon but
a large police presence ensured they went no further than the boundaries of
the loyalist area.
Onlookers said there was a 'festival atmosphere' and there were no signs of
trouble during the afternoon.
Earlier in the week republicans had complained about the event, urging
something be done about the predicted presence of the band called UFF.
Police wasted little time in telling them to co-operate yesterday and the
masks were removed.
A PSNI spokesman said the event passed off peacefully and thanked those
involved who had stuck to the rules.
Last night a smaller crowd of people were still in the area, with some
drinking and singing.
A small gang of republicans had been seen watching the events earlier in
the day, but had dispersed by nightfall.
