In this new series of radio shorts, Henry McKean looks back over his 10 years of reporting for Newstalk.
He’s trawled through his personal archives, and come up with some radio gold…dramatic moments, hilarious moments, dangerous situations, surreal encounters, both at home and abroad.
This series of Newstalk shorts will air on Newstalk on Sundays from 6.30pm-7pm.
Talking about the experience with the Orange Order, Henry said: “Last week we talked about the love Ulster Parade which turned into the Dublin Riots in February 2006. In July of that year, on the Twelfth, I visited Richhill in Amagh and tried to join the Orange Order. This report was dubbed 'Henry of Orange' and went on to win a PPI radio award in 2006.
"On 'The Twelfth' (12th of July) Richhill - a large village in County Armagh - comes alive. Thousands of Orangemen march to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne which happened in 1690 between Catholic King James and the Protestant King William.
"The battle happened at the River Boyne near Drogheda it was won by William, and 1.500 men died. It was a turning point in James's unsuccessful attempt to regain the crown and made Ireland more Protestant.
"When I visited Richhill there was a real carnival atmosphere and everyone was smiling and celebrating as piped bands passed on the main street.
"I couldn’t believe how much anger and hatred there was towards Catholics, so much bitterness and misunderstanding, even the ice cream van seller was Protestant, even though I had an orange scooter they wouldn’t let me join the Orange order. For me it was a real experience, an eye opener. Most were friendly and nice and I think I understand them a little better."
