A riot of colour in the county town

THE St Patrick's Day parade in Limerick's biggest town saw a riot of colour with floats and street entertainment make its way through the county town on Sunday, March 16.

There was food and drinks galore along with family events, face painting and live music in Newcastle West. The flurry began at The Square and travelled through the main streets. A host of local organisations took part in the parade including Newcastle West Town FC, Newcastle West Camogie, Monagea Ladies Football Club and Newcastle West GAA Club.

Mayor of Limerick John Moran made an appearance with his famous red setter dog Henri.
Newcastle West Fire Brigade Service featured in the parade, showcasing a brand new fire truck.

Attendees also enjoyed performances by street entertainers on stilts before and after the parade along with some puppetry while the crowd gathered. Along the Castle railings, musicians from the Whiskey Hall band entertained the crowd with some live music.

Limerick TD Richard O'Donoghue drove a vintage car in the parade and said that there was a “brilliant turnout and a fantastic atmosphere” at the parade this year.

READ MORE: PICTURES: St Patrick's Day celebrations in full swing in Castleconnell

Councillor Tom Ruddle added: “It was a great day of entertainment which included great music from the local band Whiskey hall, Pat Powers Puppets, Newcastle West Pipe Band, the Indian culture community among many more participants too numerous to mention.
“A special thanks to all who took part in the parade, great to see floats from Newcastle West Show and Cleary's Bar.”

The parade also featured Desmond School of Performing Arts, award-winning Junk Couture designers, West Limerick Resources, the Indian Community and Cricket Club, The Pike Men and Vikings from Ardagh Heritage Society, Women’s Shed Newcastle West, the Irish Red Cross and many more. The renowned Newcastle West Pipe Band marched and played through the streets of the town.

There was a special performance on the main stage from Raic sa Teach, the Gaelscoil band, which rounded off a wonderful day of ceol, craic and community.

There was also an opportunity to buy food on the day including crepes, pizza and cakes along with crafts and knits, dog treats, kids’ jewellery, soaps and candles.

The community met after the parade in Market Yard where the children enjoyed some treats for their efforts. After a five-year hiatus, the parade only returned last year to much fanfare.