Coleraine FC launch investigation after online video of flute band playing the Billy Boys in social club

Coleraine FC have launched an investigation after a band playing a sectarian song on its premises circulated in an online video on Saturday August 10. 

Footage shared on social media appears to show a flute band playing ‘The Billy Boys’ as a number of people sitting at tables sing along. 

Club crests of the Irish League club and ‘Welcome to Coleraine Social Club’ can be seen above the bar in the background in the footage at Coleraine FC on the town’s Ballycastle Road. 

As the video progresses a man can be seen waving two union flags along to the music of the band. 

 In a statement made on the club's website, a spokesperson said:

"Coleraine Football Club have been made aware of videos circulating on social media of a private function held in the Social Club. 

"While the Club does not oversee activities that occur during private functions, we are conducting an investigation with the organizers of the event and will review our hire policy. 

Coleraine Football Club will make no further comment."

SDLP MLA for East Derry Cara Hunter spoke about the incident. 

She said: "This kind of sectarianism has no place in our community. It's a shameful throwback to the dark days of the conflict and the people responsible need to catch themselves on.

.@JamieBrysonCPNI
Will you be calling out the Unionist sectarian, racist hatefest at @ColeraineFC club rooms yesterday? What will the @IrishFA have to say about this unacceptable racist hate? pic.twitter.com/qchkB2E9Yg

— Palestine Forever (@Caustic54061355) August 11, 2024