Finishing touches being put to Delvin parade plans

With the March 21 Delvin St. Patrick's Festival Parade fast approaching, the committee and volunteers organising the event are in their final stages of preparations.This year's event, the organisers say, is shaping up to be one of the best ever parades held in Delvin since the community event first took place twelve years ago. Hopefully, the recent stretch of good weather we've enjoyed will last until Sunday week.Prospective entrants for the parade are asked to notify the organisers early of their participation, so that places in the parade can be allotted. Early entry means optimum position.The fee for entries requiring an admission free is €30, and floats/vehicles who participated in local parades on March 17 itself are welcome to take part. Some newcomers have already registered for the parade.Volunteers are welcome to help out on the day, and anyone wishing to give an hour of their time is asked to contact John Ayres.The parade will start from the Salesyard on the Clonmellon road this year, and all floats should be at the salesyard by 2.30pm on Sunday, March 21. The parade itself kicks off at 3pm.Parking will be restricted on roads entering the village, and only disabled parking will be facilitated within the village. In the interest of public safety, there will be no parking for vehicles in the salesyard, as this is the general assembly area and reserved for marching groups and participating floats and vehicles.Please also note to take care in light of the increased volume of traffic diverted to minor roads circumventing the village.Entry forms may be obtained from Michael Kenny on 087-1465545 or Michael Moran on 087-1330157, or any committee member.Finally, raffle cards in support of the parade are available locally, with a first prize of €250 (sponsored by Dixon Plant Hire) and follow up prizes. Lines cost €2 apiece.