The first part of the parade was followed by a series of speeches, mainly from members of the Orange Order.

Lockhart was the only politician to take to the stage, where she repeated her challenge to the DUP leadership: “Profound consequences must mean profound consequences. Michelle O’Neill must go.

“That’s where I stand, and this lady is not for turning.”

Portadown District Master Nigel Dawson warned politicians that they could face consequences at the next election over the Drumcree dispute.

“Politicians need to remember that we put them into office and we can take them out of office,” he said.

He added that the Orange Order had won the right “to return home via our traditional route and Portadown District intends to exercise that right on a date and time of our choosing, and if necessary, without further recourse”.

Orange Order Deputy District Master Alistair Power said Drumcree must not be allowed to divide unionism.

“It should not be used by parties to attack each other publicly over differences of opinion,” he added. “We need to stand united.”