ARDESS Accordion Band's 60th anniversary parade will be tinged with an air of sadness following the sad passing of a long-time member, Viola Loane. 

Initial plans to mark our 60th Anniversary were spearheaded by Viola, with plans being made for a family fun day and Accordion Band extravaganza.

However, she sadly passed away in January 2024, following a courageous five-year battle against cancer.

Following Viola's passing, the band decided to go ahead and mark this milestone in history, with the annual band parade to honour Viola’s devotion to the band.

The anniversary parade will take place on June 7 in Kesh, starting at 8pm, with fundraising split between band funds and Cancer Connect NI, a charity based in Co Fermanagh which works to provide both guidance and practical support to those impacted by cancer. 

Ardess Accordion Band is a well-established accordion band, based outside Kesh, Co Fermanagh. Throughout the year the band attends a range of parades, concerts and events.

Of course, the band's success in recent years is a testament to the leadership provided by Viola, who devoted over half her life to fundraising for the band and training membership, ensuring that on each outing they were always performing to a high standard and looking their very best.

Over the past 60 years the band has gone from strength to strength, with a current membership of over 40 members.

With the bands distinctive red uniforms, they are recognisable throughout the county and further afield.

On June 7, bands are being asked to assemble at Glendurragh Park on the Ederney Road for 7.30pm, to be in place to move off at 8pm sharp for a parade of the village.