Orangemen celebrate 380th Battle of Boyne anniversary

Thousands of Orangemen will be marching today to mark the 380th anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne in Co Louth.

The Orange Order is trying to re-brand the commemorations in a bid to attract tourists and convince others that it's not a sectarian organisation.

Many Catholics traditionally leave the North over the weekend of July 12 to avoid traffic disruption, closed shops and a general sense of threat.

But the Orange Order wants to attract more people to stay at home on July 12 and even attract outsiders to its marches.

Re-named "Orangefest", the Order's leadership hopes it will eventually boost tourism and strengthen the economy.

Orangefest leader William Humphrey says it's already drawing in visitors curious to see what it's all about.

This year the main marches are on a Saturday and some shops will not be closing.