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Thousands lined the streets of Newry yesterday for the annual Saint Patrick's Day parade, while more visited McClelland Park, Newry Museum and stages placed around the city. It might have rained on our parade but it certainly didn't dampen the enthusiasm from participants and onlookers young and old.
The parade set off at 1pm from the Albert Basin with 'St Patrick' himself along with his band of warriors and Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Michael Savage leading the way. Bessbrook Crimson Arrow Pipe Band provided the sound track to the many colourful participants. Sinead Nolan School of Dance certainly put the energy into the parade. Dragons, dragonboats and dancers represented a multitude of the different cultures that have made Newry their home. St Patrick's Primary School and Nursery, Mayobridge were one of the more colourful groups wearing their clown outfits. Newry Rugby Club impressed, complete with cut-out players and a larger than life Saint Patrick. Not to be outdone in the sporting field an acrobatic Windmill Stars Football Club player displayed his skills to an appreciative crowd.
Inland Waterways Association of Ireland Newry and Portadown highlighted the need for an 'opening bridge for Albert Basin's future' in reply to Department for Infrastructure decision to push forward with a non opening one. Down at the Albert Basin itself a floating billboard had been placed with a message for US President Joe Biden to 'sort out' the Department.
Indeed there were many impressive parade participants though Killeavy GAC might just have stolen everyones thunder with actor Seamus O'Hara from the Oscar winning An Irish Goodbye proudly putting in an appearance on the float.
Down in McClelland Park children were making and flying their own kites while over at Marcus Square More Power To Your Elbow were in full flow. Steady rain might have reduced the numbers but those present enjoyed what was a cracker of a concert. Back up at the Museum a brilliant session was in full flow with many's a ballad sung from The Leaving of Liverpool to The Mountains of Mourne. Over at the Buttercrane those with energy left were putting it into a fundraiser for the Special Olympics via a spinathon.
Bars in the city had a field day with many a song sung and a pint supped to the early hours although those photographs may never be seen!!!
Well done to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
