Parade was success

SIR, — I attended the St Patrick’s Day parade this year as usual in Downpatrick. First of all, congratulations to all involved in organising and taking part in the float parade. 

However, aside from our very large St Patrick in the Square, I was somewhat struck by the lack of bunting and festival atmosphere in the streets.

This year, poor weather and a rugby match may have kept a few people at home. Let’s make sure to get them back next year and really promote what should be a centrepiece of the county’s celebrations. Downpatrick’s link with our patron saint is surely unrivalled.

Your etc,

PARADE-GOER,

Downpatrick.