Patrick's Day Parade firms up

There's been a very positive response to Kilcullen's first St Patrick's Day Parade, being organised by Kilcullen Scouts, writes Brian Byrne.

A number of businesses and local organisations have committed to taking part, the latest Gathering meeting was told.

Emma Birchall outlined the plan for the day, with floats and marching groups gathering in the Bishop Rogan Park area prior to parading through the town from 12.30pm. The parade will end at the traffic lights, and participants and spectators can then go and enjoy music and dancing in the parkland grounds of the former Cross & Passion Convent.

A traditional Irish music band and the Ballymore Brass Band are already lined up to play, and there are expressions of interest from others.

And St Patrick will be banishing snakes from Ireland again in the contribution from Bridge Camphill, which is building giant representations of both the man and the reptile.

Vintage cars and tractors will also be involved, and the Grand Marshall, Mrs Bridgie Aspell, will lead the prade from an open car, weather permitting.

There will be three trophies to be won, for Best Business entry, Best Organisation, and an Overall Winner.