The Spirit of Drumcree group has expelled a member who played an important role in resolving a dispute over a controversial parade through the Co Antrim village of Dunloy two weeks ago.
Mr John Finlay, a leading Orangeman and member of the Apprentice Boys in Dunloy, agreed to abide by a compromise suggested by the Parades Commission over an Apprentice Boys parade through the village on May 17th.
The parade was rerouted away from the centre of Dunloy and nationalist residents decided not to hold any protest as the Apprentice Boys, led by one band, made their way to a Presbyterian church at the edge of the village.
On previous occasions, parades through the village have led to standoffs and clashes with the police.
Mr Joel Patton, the leader of the Spirit of Drumcree group, said yesterday that the decision to expel Mr Finlay was taken because he had recognised the Parades Commission and agreed voluntarily to reroute a parade.
Mr Finlay was chaplain to the group, which broke away from the Orange Order.
Mr Finlay later denied that he had abided by the Parades Commission ruling on the Dunloy parade, and said he was disappointed that he had been expelled.