ORGANISERS of a loyalist flag protest have changed the route of planned parade in Londonderry to avoid the Bloody Sunday anniversary.
It is understood that behind-the-scenes talks were held, as fears mounted ahead of the march.
Tensions in the city, had increased after several Parachute Regiment flags had been erected.
SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey described the move by the Loyalist Fusiliers over the parade as mature.
Meanwhile Environment Minister Alex Attwood has condemned those who have placed graffiti on Derry’s Walls
“The Walls are a big part of the heritage of the City.
“The Walls are for all. The Walls cannot be a political canvas for the few and the few cannot dictate how the Walls are managed or cleaned.
“I will work with others over the next few days to move all this forward,
“As we have seen in Belfast recently, there are some in our society who cling to the past and who resist respect for difference. But the big majority of Derry people have always stood for and with those who offer best leadership. They do now,” said Mr Attwood.