March 2003 was a landmark month for hospitality in Laois with the opening of The Heritage hotel in the heart of Portlaoise. Golf legend Seve Ballesteros, Mountrath TV star Claire Byrne and future Taoiseach Brian Cowen were among the many guests who were there for the ribbon cutting by Minister Cowen. Laois potographer Alf Harvey was on duty on the day to capture the historic day for the town with the opening of the hotel, which is now known as the Midlands Park Hotel.
5. Msgr John Byrne, PP and, Laois County Council Cathaoirleach, Joe Digan were among the guests.
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6. Cllr Joe Digan, Louis Brennan, Sen Kieran Phelan and other guests at the opening.
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7. Louis Brennan, Seve Ballesteros, Joe Digan,.
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8. String quartet entertainment.
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