St Patrick's Day
2007
As
has been the trend in recent years, the day of our Patron Saint was very well
celebrated in Donaghmore, despite the unfavourable weather conditions. Celebrations
began at 11 o'clock Mass, which was celebrated by Fr Gerard McAleer. The staff
and pupils of Blessed Patrick O'Loughran Primary School, Castlecaulfield took
up the mantle this year to help celebrate the Mass, where they assisted in the
Liturgy, as well as providing assistance with the various songs and hymns. After
Mass, proceedings then progressed to the Main Street where entertainment was
provided by various local musicians and dancers, both young and old, in a display
of Irish culture which was a credit to each and every individual. Malachi Cush
ensured that everything ran smoothly, and indeed offered a few songs himself
for the public to join in. Unfortunately, the weather was not as kind this year,
and after approximately 2 hours, it was wisely decided to draw proceedings to
a close, as the chill factor began to force people indoors, to watch the mighty
Ireland rugby team defeat Italy, as well as Crossmaglen Rangers coming back
from the dead to draw with Dr Crokes of Kerry in the All - Ireland Club Final.
Needless to say, the partying continued into the wee small hours of Sunday morning!!!!
Our photographs below show just some of the individuals and musicians who were
present on the day.
Like father like daughter!!!!!
Father and daughter, John O'Neill and
Claire McCrystal provide entertainment for the various patrons on the Main Street.
As always, John has a smile on his face when the accordion is in full swing!!!
(To enlarge image,
please click here....)
I want to be up there!!!!!
One young spectator was
clearly enjoying himself, attempting to make a dash to join the musicians on
stage.
(To
enlarge image, please click here....)
Hughie Hetherington, the
veteran of many ceili's and other celebrations, ponders onto the spectators
wondering what all the fuss is about.
(To enlarge
image, please click here....)
Members of
the Carson family pictured on the Main Street, whilst patrons in the background
continue to run for cover from the inclement weather.
(To
enlarge image, please click here....)
(To enlarge
image on the left click here, for
middle image click here, and for image on right,
click here....)
Pictured
above are some of the younger members of the community who helped to make the
day such a success.