Music legend Christy Moore has re-written part of a popular folk song – originally penned by republican hunger striker Bobby Sands – in support of nationalist protesters on the Garvaghy Road.
In a clip circulated on social media Mr Moore has added new lyrics to the ballad ‘Back Home in Derry’ in a show of solidarity with nationalist residents opposed to a planned Orange Order parade through the district.
The song was written by Mr Sands, who died in the 1981 hunger strike, while he was being held in the H-Blocks.
Mr Moore recorded the song, which draws on the tune of Gordon Lighfoot’s 1976 classic ‘The Wreck of the Edmind Fitzgerald’, for his 1984 album, Ride On.
In a short message, Mr Moore says “Sorry I can’t be there with you, keep it calm, well done on the Garvaghy Road” before breaking into song.
Mr Moore repeats the phrase ‘No pasarán’, an anti-fascist slogan associated with the Spanish civil war, which translates as “they shall not pass”.
The high-profile musician is among thousands of people across Ireland and beyond to pledge support to Garvaghy Road residents.
In recent days a trailer has been moved into place and is being used as make-shift stage for dozens of musicians and singers who have entertained large numbers of protesters who have travelled to the area daily.
Mr Moore’s show of support comes ahead of a planned ‘solidarity rally’ on the Garvaghy Road at 3pm on Saturday.
Loyalists are also planning to hold a ‘let them home’ festival in the Edgarstown area of Portadown on the same day.