Well, chalk it up as another very successful Kilcullen event,
writes Brian Byrne. The St Patrick's Day Parade organised by Kilcullen Scouts once again drew out the crowds, not just taking part but also viewing the proceedings.
The sun did its bit too, making it a very pleasant day to be out despite the chill from that Arctic wind system that's holding the damp Atlantic stuff at bay for these few days.
It was a day for children, and the adults became children too for the occasion. What was particularly marked was the level of good humour all over the place. A sense that we're climbing out of what has been a soggy, snuffly winter, with a hope of warmer and brighter days to come.
There were some 30 floats and marching groups in the parade, led by an Army colour party and the group of Centenary Medal holders organised by John Brady, family members of people who had fought in 1916 and the War of Independence wearing their forebears' medals.
Following the Parade, prizes were presented to Auntie Anne's Country Creche as Best Overall, the 1916 Commemorative Medals group as Best Group, to Kilcullen AFC as the Best Club, to Animals First Veterinary as Best Business, and to Ger's Fruit & Veg for Best Dressed Window. The Spout won the MC's prize.
A great day. Well done to all who organised, took part, and came out to enjoy it.
All 211 of the Diary's pictures from the Parade can be viewed here. A selection is published below.
