St. Patricks Weekend 12th – 14th March
The weekend got off to a great start on Saturday afternoon with fun and activities in the Vine House car park. After a great display of talent from the Paws and Claws Dog show, Malachy Bourke presented Ronan Tully’s Punch and Judy Show.
St. Patrick decided on a preview performance this year on the river and drummed us awake at 7.30 on Sunday morning. Michael Breathnach ably assisted by Fr. Jack helped to usher the faithful to morning prayers with additional tunes from his bugle. Mrs Doyle dished out endless cups of tea while the frying pans got busy churning out the rashers and sausages. After munching down a hearty breakfast a bewildering contingent of Pirates, Indians and Mad Hatters joined the Leprecauns, Clowns and other lively personalities to raise flags, stow ropes and fire up engines. Queen Maeve unfurled the Hounds of Peace and led the flotilla out of the harbour skippering Silverline’s vessel the River Queen.
The flotilla processed south towards Innishee Island, taking the westerly passage and round by Shamrock Marina. At the southerly point of Innishee Island the River Queen encountered a convoy of cautious followers who, reluctant to risk the shallow depths had taken the easterly passage around Innishee Island. However, they expertly headed for the shallows and allowed Queen Maeve to continue back to the harbour unruffled by further skirmishes.
The festival Grand Marshall, Mr. George Smith arrived shortly after to judge the fancy dress. Mrs. Doyle handed out more tea and Fr. Jack was soon relaxing with the help of two bottles of wine. The Pryde of the day were the The Mad Hatters who gave a brilliant performance on the Contessa Rose. The Polecat Pirates captured a plaque and some Baileys and the children’s fancy dress was so good they all got a prize.
But the highlight of the day was our inclusion in the town parade. Led by the Pirate ship and drumming from the Mad Hatters we traipsed up the town dispensing sweets and drinks and blowing bubbles.
All too soon the weekend was over but the flags are still flying. By the way thanks to Forogie Youth Club for hand painting some brilliant flags to decorate the flotilla. While we are on the subject many thanks also to Silverline for providing their lovely passenger boat the River Queen. Also a grateful thanks to Flynns Pub, Corrigans Pub, Supervalue, Tony O’Connor, Chris Buggy and Michael Breathnach from the Oat Gallery in Ballinasloe for sponsoring the spot prizes and refreshments.
Indeed, thanks to all who joined in the weekend. As you all know the flotilla is in aid of the Offaly Hospice and you would be pleased to know that we raised approx. E1,000 for the hospice.