A loyalist march through Govan on Saturday saw no counter-protests or violence following warnings from police that hundreds could turn out to oppose the parade.

Govan came to a standstill on Saturday morning as a march of 800 loyalists paraded through the area.

Buses and cars were brought to a halt as an event by the Pride of Govan Flute Band welcomed members from 17 bands from across the country to Glasgow, with a heavy police presence visible from early this morning.

A statement issued by Glasgow City Council on Thursday had said officials ‘deeply regret’ the disturbance to the community in Govan caused by Saturday’s march.

This came after a reported refusal to withdraw by the Pride of Govan organisers after a request by the council.

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The parade, which began at Ibrox Stadium, before travelling towards Govan Road, stopping at Govan Cenotaph, saw no counter protests.

Police were stationed at 50-metre intervals or so throughout the amended route as it made its way towards the cenotaph on Govan Road.

Stewards from the band regularly ushered followers off the streets, meaning police did not need to intervene.

Along with the 800 or so band members, hundreds more lined the streets, following along the route.

As the band reached the parades focal point on Govan Road they passed near to St Anthony’s RC Church, which just three weeks earlier had been the site of a loyalist protest to a republican march by the James Connolly Flute Band.

However, on this occasion, there were no burning bins or clashes with police, as bands stopped to pay their respects.

A representative from the Pride of Govan Flute Band read the Ode of Remembrance from Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen, as a wreath was laid.
Police intelligence published on Thursday indicated that as many as 200 republicans could be present on Saturday.

Contrary to this, no opposition to the march was visible, with no violent scenes along the route, meaning the dozens of dogs and cops in riot gear were not needed.

READ MORE: Hundreds strong Loyalist march sets off through Govan

Following the stop on Govan Road the band’s continued their march back towards Lorne Street, where the procession was to end. 

Compared to previous marches the atmosphere was relatively subdued, with very little singing from supporters on either side of the street.

This week’s march is one of four which were taking place across Glasgow on Saturday, with others in the city centre, Springburn and Drumchapel.

Following a ban on six loyalist and republican events last weekend, Glasgow City confirmed there would be no ban put in place this week.