The Brian Boru Club celebrated the 40th anniversary of its St Patrick’s Day parade in Ashton-in-Makerfield this year.

The rain wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of the club, founded back in 1889, as Canon McNally celebrated Mass in English and Gaelic, followed by a parade through the town. 

Mayor of Wigan Jenny Bullen officially opened the parade, and joined councillor Andrew Bullen, local MP Josh Simons and Deirdre O’ Flaherty from the Irish consulate in Manchester, alongside St Patrick, 12 Irish wolfhounds, the Liverpool pipe band, a 100 year old banner (on loan from Wigan St Patrick’s church), an inflatable leprechaun, 8ft Brian Boru, three Mustang cars in the colours green white and gold, two low-loader trucks, a green tractor and Wigan True Levellers samba band.

There was entertainment including singing, dancing and music all afternoon and evening.

The parade was also joined by the different groups that use the club - Claddagh community group, Comhaltas junior and senior musicians, Siobhan Clarke dancers, Ceili-cise dancers, film club, Friday karaoke and social, Friday night music session, walking group, running group, word circle group – to name a few!
“It was a fabulous community celebration”, commented Tom Moran, President of the Brian Boru club. “Thank you to all who supported our St Patrick’s Day festivities!”