A controversial Orange Order parade through north Belfast passed off peacefully last night, with police praising
the parade organisers and nationalist residents for negotiating a compromise on the march route.
Chief Superintendent Gary White said he hoped it heralded a peaceful summer and revealed details of a police clamp-down against on-street drinking at the event.
"Tonight we have had another very peaceful parade in north Belfast," he said.
"This was the result of communities coming together, engaging in dialogue and finding local accommodation to local issues."
In the past the march was at the centre of violent clashes when it brought thousands of loyalist supporters past nationalist areas.
Talks between the Ardoyne Parades Dialogue Group and the North and West Belfast Parades Forum led to the announcement last week that marchers would avoid a flashpoint area.
The Tour of the North parade did not return past the Ardoyne shops - scene of violent clashes in the past - following a deal brokered by the nationalist residents and parade organisers.
Chief Supt White said: "We would encourage everyone to continue to work together, build on the success of the last two years and ensure that everyone can enjoy another peaceful summer."
He said the absence of the serious violence linked with the parade in the past meant that police resources could be deployed to tackle crime in local areas.
Prior to the event the Orange Order had revealed it was working with police to reduce drunkenness at the event. Police said they had taken a proactive approach to illegal on-street drinking at the parade and had seized 500 items of alcohol.
But Sinn Féin denied the event had been peaceful and said nationalist residents found the march intimidating.
Sinn Féin representative for the area Carol ní Cuillan said: "This undermines the good work that has been done. An official complaint will now be filed."