Police warn Orange march 'bigots'

Thousands of people are expected at the march through Glasgow city centre

Strathclyde Police have warned that they will not tolerate "sectarian behaviour" at the annual Orange Order parade in Glasgow this weekend.

About 8,000 marchers from 182 lodges across the city are expected to take part in Saturday's parade.

Thousands more people are expected to follow the marchers for a rally at Kelvingrove Park.

Police said their warning over possible sectarian behaviour had the backing of the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland.

Assistant Chief Constable John Neilson said: "Whilst the parade will have a major impact on traffic in the city centre, the main issue for the force and members of the public is the excessive drinking and public nuisance caused by those who follow the parade.

We do not wish anyone's enjoyment spoiled by the antics of boozed-up foul-mouthed followers Ian Wilson Grand Master of the Orange Order

"We want to make sure people can come into the city centre without too much disruption or feeling intimidated by excessive drunkenness and sectarian or disorderly behaviour.

"By all means follow the march, but note that drinking in public places is not allowed and officers will make full use of anti-social behaviour fixed penalty tickets to tackle the consumption of alcohol and urinating in public places."

Ian Wilson, Grand Master of the Orange Order, said he wanted spectators to "enjoy the music and the pageantry in a carnival atmosphere".

"We do not wish anyone's enjoyment spoiled by the antics of boozed-up foul-mouthed followers," he said.

"There is no place in our celebration for public drinking, abusive behaviour or offensive chants."