South Lanarkshire Council has been accused of "bigoted hatred" by a flute band, after refusing to allow a busy street to be decorated with flags for an Orange parade on Saturday.
Earlier this year, Lanarkshire Live told of a row concerning Rutherglen Main Street, after the Rutherglen Bluebell Flute Band had paraded through the town.
Various Union Jacks and paraphernalia had been erected by the band, angering some residents and prompting a sharply worded critique from SNP councillor, Janine Calikes.
Prior to the most recent parade, the band applied to have decorations in place for Saturday's march, which also paid tribute to Graeme Robertson, a member of the band who passed away.
SLC denied the request, a refusal which prompted a furious reaction on social media from the flute band, which issued a lengthy statement.
It read: "It is with great regret and sadness that we advise you, our loyal followers and supporters of the band, that Rutherglen Main Street and surrounding area will not be decorated for the upcoming anniversary parade in memory of the late Graeme Robertson, or for the Glasgow Boyne Celebrations this weekend.
"In the past, both members and friends of the band have taken it upon themselves to respectfully decorate the streets, buildings and lampposts in tasteful and colourful regalia amidst the exciting run-up to these big occasions.
"On a previous occasion, we were criticised heavily by our detractors within the local media, for 'sectarian vandalism' of landmarks in and around the surrounding area.
"Claims were also made by SLC that the erection of flags was 'creating tension in the area'. One must ask oneself how a British flag could possibly create tension on a British street!
"The above noted claims and allegations are utterly false, unsubstantiated and are fully refuted by the band.
""However, we decided to do what we felt was the right thing on this occasion and seek permission by following the correct channels with SLC.
""Unfortunately, the irony of the fact that this council operates and oversees the 'Royal' burgh of Rutherglen, is lost on these people and they have refused us permission in our quest to decorate the area.
"In rebuffing our honest approach, they have shown contempt not only for the band but also for our local Orange Brothers and Sisters and not least our past member, Graeme.
"SLC should hang their heads in shame. They have shown their bigoted hatred for the colours of our country but the band will not allow it to ruin what is sure to be a spectacular weekend."
Earlier this year, Councillor Calikes, who represents Rutherglen Central and North, stated that the amount of flags and bunting represented a safety risk due to people trying to climb up and remove them, as well as creating additional work for council employees.
A council spokesman said: "I can confirm that the decision was taken to refuse this request after full consideration of all the factors involved."
The council declined to clarify further what the factors involved in the decision were.
However, a council source insisted that the same decision-making processes would be applied to any parade, for any cause or from any background.
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