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.
9. At the official opening of The Heritage, Portlaoise on Saturday. From left: Mary Milne, Carmel Milne, James Tooher, Patrick Milne, Phyllis Tooher, Tom Milne, Director and Maura Milne.
Photo: Alf Harvey
10. Grellan Delaney, John White and Mark McCrory at the official opening of The Heritage, Portlaoise.
Photo: Alf Harvey.
11. Tom Byrne and Claire Byrne TV3 at the official opening of The Heritage, Portlaoise.
Photo: Alf Harvey
12. Michael Malone, Louis Brennan, Tommy Keane at the opening.
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