A welcome to FOCUS 2008

John McCallister MLA has welcomed the week of festivities, FOCUS, which will be taking place this week in Newcastle. The week long festival will culminate with the 12^th July demonstration with many local District Lodges coming to the area.

Mr McCallister said, "The idea of FOCUS is to encourage family fun and entertainment leading up to the 12^th celebrations. There will be three exhibitions and nightly concerts by local bands."

"The festival has been organised by Crimson Arrow Pipe Band in conjunction with the Newcastle & District Community Association. This will give the people of Newcastle the opportunity to learn more about the history of the Ulster Scots and the orange order, with the exhibitions concentrating on the effect on the local community."

"I would urge everyone in the local and surrounding area to come along and to see FOCUS, and educate their family to the orange culture & Ulster Scots."

"Other 12^th July parades are taking place in Kilkeel and Dromara Village offering a great day out, as long as the weather holds, and something for all the family."