PICTURES: Roscrea's 46th St Patrick's Day Parade draws huge crowds

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The young stars of Roscrea GAA were led by St Patrick

Roscrea, the third oldest market town in Ireland, celebrated their 46th St Patrick's Day Parade with large crowds and good weather.

The streets of the heritage town were thronged with enthusiastic revelers for the Roscrea parade which kicked off shortly before 4pm on March 17, Ireland's National Feast Day.

There was a tinge of sadness for the proud 46th Parade however, as a devoted member of the organising committee and beloved local former teacher, Steve Crofton, who passed away in January was not present for what was always an annual highlight for Mr Crofton.

The former teacher at the CBS in Roscrea first came to Roscrea in 1976 and left an indelible mark on his adopted hometown - with this year's Parade led by Mr Crofton's prized classic VW Golf GTi car, driven by his longtime friend Arthur Crawford.

Mr Crawford, who led the Parade start in his friend's car also participated in the closing entry, as he is the founder of the local Free Spirit Motorcycle Club and they traditionally close the Roscrea Parade every year.

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The overall winners of the Roscrea Parade this year were the Blackbull Threshing Festival and winners of the special merit award went to Bernie's SuperValu on Main Street in Roscrea, which suffered a devastating fire in November last year.

Notable other entries included Roscrea GAA Club who had a wonderful float with all the young future GAA stars of Roscrea led by St Patrick himself; Roscrea Lions Club promoting their Charity Golf Classic on Saturday, May 16th at Roscrea Golf Club and the myriad of stunning vintage machinery, cars and tractors which took part.

Commentary for the event was provided by former Midland Tribune and Tipperary Star reporter, Anne Ralph, who took a leading role in organising previous Parades through Roscrea's Junior Chamber and Guest of Honour was founder of Age Friendly Roscrea, Anne Keevey.

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Chairman of the event, local councillor Shane Lee, told the Tribune he was delighted with the large attendance and participation and thanked all the volunteers who make the event possible.