Nottingham’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations will go ahead this year, despite organisers previously saying 2015’s festivities were likely to be the last.
The 2016 parade was under threat due to funding issues linked to cuts by the Irish Government, but it looks as though Nottingham will be playing host to a sea of green and white after all on March 17.
Organisers say a number of different Irish culture groups across Notts have been working hard to fund-raise for the big day, including the Golden Shamrock Club, based at the Irish Centre on Wilford Street.
Picture: Nottingham’s parade was one of the largest in the UK outside of London
Club social secretary Pauline Gordon was born in Nottingham but had Irish parents and is proud of her Emerald Isle heritage.
She said: “The parade won’t be as big this year.
“There will be still be one and everyone will still enjoy it. We’ve been holding dances and concerts to raise money in the hope that the event gets the funding it needs.”
The usual St Patrick’s parade from the Forest Recreation Ground will not take place this year, but there will still be marches from two points in the City Centre – one from the Brian Clough Statue and the other starting in Hockley.
We will miss their help
Due to cutbacks, the Irish Government has withdrawn its previous funding of the event, amounting to around £11,000 a year.
“We will miss their help,” Ms Gordon added.
Mary McGowan is also a member of the parade’s organising committee and has already begun organising entertainment for March 17.
She said: “As in previous years, we are having a band called The Hurling Boys on the stage in the Market Square from midday through to 4.30pm.
“There will be music provided and also displays of Irish Dancing.”
For the first time ever, Notts will play host to a pipe band.
