Search for new King Billy

The current King Billy is retiring

The king is dead - long live the king. That is King Billy, of course.

For the Northern Ireland man who has been playing the famous William of Orange in pageants for 20 years is hanging up his wig and passing on his crown to a younger man.

The victory of William of Orange in the 1690 Battle of the Boyne over Catholic King James II is celebrated every year on 12 July.

Parades by the Protestant Orange Order take place throughout the province to mark the event.

Brian Blair has dressed up as King Billy in events for the Carrickfergus Historical Re-enactment Group in County Antrim.

The telephone engineer from Carrickfergus has fought the Battle of the Boyne dozens of times.

David Hilditch: King Billy is a "popular guy"

But now the time has come for him to step down from his white charger - and hand over the reins of office to a new King Billy.

David Hilditch of the Carrick Historical Re-enactment Group described who would fit the bill.

"We'll be looking for a young man or woman who has an interest in horses, in meeting people," he said.

"This area is packed with thousands of folk all wanting pictures and autographs of King William on the day. He's a popular guy. "

But what sort of skills does King Billy need?

Tony Byrne of a local recruitment agency said somebody with good horse-handling skills was essential.

"We're looking for somebody who can draw a sword quickly...we have the facility to test that in the office," he said.

"Also, a good knowledge of County Louth and possibly good swimming skills."

'Malnourished'

Could the next King Billy be found in Carrickfergus where William of Orange first set foot in Ireland?

One man said: "I wouldn't take the job on because I don't have the time."

Another man said: "In those days people were malnourished so he'd have to be small to fit into the costumes.

"Pretty enthusiastic I'd imagine - perhaps grow his own hair."

Any man or woman who thinks they might fit the bill should contact the re-enactment group.