The Orange Order is organising its annual UDR 2 Memorial Parade in Belfast to honour Private James Cummings and Private Frederick Starrett, both aged 22, who were killed by a 200lb IRA booby-trap bomb on 24 February 1988.

The soldiers were closing security gates on Royal Avenue in the city centre when the device, hidden behind hoarding, was detonated by command wire at 11:15pm. Cummings, from Avonlea Gardens in Rathcoole, Newtownabbey, served with 7/10 UDR and was a member of Johnston’s Golden Star LOL 1934. Starrett, from Grand Parade in East Belfast, served with UDR and was a member of Banner of the Cross LOL 1310, both in Ballymacarrett No 6 District.

The parade is scheduled to leave Templemore Avenue at 10:30am, with a remembrance service led by Grand Chaplain Rev Dr Ron Johnstone and a wreath-laying ceremony at the scene in Royal Avenue around 11:25am. Participants will leave the city centre around 12pm.

Grand Master Henning described the event as a solemn occasion to remember the sacrifice of the two soldiers, who were murdered while serving in the Ulster Defence Regiment. He noted that 344 Orange Order members were killed by terrorists and emphasised the duty to ensure their service is not forgotten.

Participating bands include Pride Of The Raven Flute Band, Millar Memorial Flute Band, Legananny Accordion Band and Somme Memorial Flute Band. Organisers estimate around 800 people will take part.