Pictured at the presentation of a cheque by Tullamore Credit Union to the Tullamore Parade Committee are (l to r): Martin O' Connor; Enda Mollen; Damien McIntyre, Credit Union; Frankie O' Reilly; Siobhan Conroy, Credit Union; Johnny O' Connor and Independent Cllr Sean O' Brien.

Tullamore business support for St. Patrick's parade "is vital"

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Financial support from businesses in the Tullamore area, which is vital for the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in the town, was acknowledged by the Parade Committee when they accepted a cheque from Tullamore Credit Union on Saturday Last.

"The support given by the business community in the Tullamore area is vital over the years in assisting us to organise the St. Patrick's Day Parade" said parade secretary and local Independent Cllr, Sean O'Brien, who added that the organisers "could not run the parade" if they did not have the backing of local business owners.

"Without that support we could not run the Parade as we have so many costs, including bands and Insurance. So far this year we have received much needed contributions from local businesses and we will be calling to more businesses in the run up to the parade.. All businesses will be acknowledged on our website and Facebook page" said Cllr O'Brien.

The Parade takes place on Sunday, March 17 next, commencing at 11.30am. The assembly point is the car park of the Bridge Centre and entries are asked to be there by 11am.

The official opening of the parade will be performed by Grand Marshal and former Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, at 11am at the Review Stand. There will be entertainment on the stand from 10.45am and people are advised to come early as a large crowd is expected this year.

Prizes will be awarded to the winners of several categories, and also the overall winner, at a special presentation night in the Phoenix Bar on April 5 next. Apart from the category prizes there will also be prizes for the Best Dressed Dog and Best Window Display. A novel prize this year is the Peoples Choice Award, which will be chosen by the general public by way of a poll on the parade website: www.stpatricksdaytullamore.com

There will be a reserved seated area for elderly and wheelchair users opposite the Review Stand. There is still time to enter the Parade, simply email seanobrientullamore@gmail.com or call any of the following contacts: Frankie O' Reilly, 087 2287550; Sean O' Brien 086 3892854 orJohnny O' Connor 087 2602487.

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