The cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Councillor Christy Hyland, members and management of Westport Town Council, would like to sincerely thank everybody who participated in the St Patrick’s Day Parade which was a tremendous success. Indeed the theme of the parade ‘Teamwork, Everyone’s a Winner’, in recognition of 2012 being designated as The International Year of The Co-operative, was really to the fore on the day.
The Ardinariff Flute Band from Westport’s Twin Town of Limavady returned for their fifth annual appearance at the parade. However, pride of place had to be afforded to Westport Town Band, and long-time band member Larry Hingerton, who never fails to perform for all special occasions. A big welcome was also extended to Banna Píob Chuan Modh—Clew Bay Pipe Band, established by Peter Carney, principal of Carrowholly NS along with professional musician Des Cafferkey.
This parade was led by the Grand Marshall, John Mayock, selected for his lifelong commitment to the co-operative movement in Mayo. Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD and Amber Farrell, a pupil of Holy Trinity NS who was the overall winner of this year’s art competition, were also part of the parade leaders together with members of Limavady Borough Council, and Westport’s Honorary Citizen, internationally renowned photographer Ron Rosenstock.
Winners in this year’s parade: Best Commercial Entry: Allergan Pharmaceuticals; Best Sporting Entry: Covey Wheelers Cycling Club; Joint Winner Best Voluntary Group: Daffodil Day Organisation; Joint Winner Best Voluntary Group: Westport Tidy Towns Committee; Joint Winner Best Schools Category: St Colmcille’s National School; Joint Winner Best Schools Category: Carrowholly National School; Best New Entrant: Clew Bay Pipe Band; Best Vintage Car: Michael McLaughlin; Best Community Entry: Quay Community Project.
