The small rural community of Vicarstown had the honour of being Laois’s first St Patrick’s Day parade in three years this morning.
Notwithstanding the various virtual parades that were held across the past two years, this morning was the first time since this time three years ago that communities were able to gather to mark our national holiday.
And in Vicarstown, various groups gathered at the bridge in the village from 9am to parade into 9.30 mass.
Led by accordion Noel Stapleton and Fr Sean Kelly – who has been overseeing parades in the parish since 1989 – groups from Annanough GAA and the Buggie School of Dancing were joined by local community members.
St Patrick himself was even on hand and given a Garda escort!
After mass refreshments were served in the Community Hall.
And given the early start, many of the participants still had plenty of time to make it to Stradbally for their 11am start.
Some too even had time to go further afield – to Athy and Portlaoise – to join other groups.
Is it great to be back!
You can check out a selection of images below from our photographer in Vicarstown Ross Molloy.
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