The event was organised by Lower Iveagh District LOL No 1.

Deputy District Master, Bro. Maurice Coburn, chaired the proceedings and Mrs. Mary Mattison, mother of Worshipful District Master, Bro. Dr. Jonathan Mattison - who was unable to attend - conducted the opening ceremony.

Seven year-old Victoria Kernaghan, daughter of Second District Lecturer, Bro. Mervyn Kernaghan and a pupil of Dromara Primary School, later made a presentation to Mrs. Mattison.

District Lay Chaplain, Bro. Robert Murphy, led scripture readings and prayers and District Chaplain, Bro. the Rev. Gerry Sproule, dedicated the arch and gave the address.

Bro. Tom Wilkinson of Rising Sons of William LOL 422, Ballygowan, made an appeal for the maintenance and upkeep of the arch and Skeogh Flute Band played a selection of music during the taking up of the collection.

Bro Paul Malcomson of Drumiller LOL 582 proposed a vote of thanks, seconded by Bro. Dennis McCracken ofListullycurran LOL No 616.

Corbet Accordion Band, conducted by Geoffrey Dickson, led the singing of the hymns 'Stand up, stand up for Jesus' and 'Abide with me'.

Also making a musical contribution was praise and worship band 'Inflame'.

Formed by young people from a number of local churches, the band played Christian music both before and after the opening ceremony.