Longford village to host first ever St Patrick's Day parade

It may still be the best part of six weeks away, but thoughts are already starting to be aimed in the direction of this year's St Patrick's Day parades.

And while the usual destinations of Longford, Ballymahon, Lanesboro and Arva are likely to pull out all the stops to surpass last year's festivities, parade goers will have a further port of call to take in on March 17.

That's because a small band of dedicated and resourceful local residents in Ballinamuck have decided to host the north Longford village's first ever St Patrick's Day parade.

“It was actually Margaret Dillon that came up with the idea one night and when we met around the table two weeks ago, there was this feeling of wouldn't it be nice to have something of our own,” said Breda Colreavy Cassidy.

Breda added it was mainly local residents, many of whom are on a number of working committees that have since agreed to bring the parade's concept to fruition.

“I am on the youth club, treasurer of the Ballinamuck Olde Fair Day and a lot of those involved are getting behind the organising of this,” she added.

“We might look at Drumlish next year but for our first year we are keeping a relatively low profile and see how it goes,” she said.

The benefit of a Church gate collection and the possible addition of local businesses providing much needed sponsorship is something Breda hopes will provide the necessary resources to ensure Ballinamuck's inaugural St Patrick's Day parade is a resounding success.

“We are hoping to have the likes of youth clubs, local bikers, Irish dancing and vintage cars play their part in the day itself,” she added.

The parade is scheduled to commence at 4pm.