Daniel to be Marshal of Millstreet?
THE rumours are only growing in the Millstreet area that country and Irish superstar Daniel O’Donnell is to be the grand marshal of the St Patrick’s Day Parade in the town this year.
The rumours were greeted with more than a degree of scepticism early in the week only for them to re-emerge from different sources later.
The organisers of the Millstreet parade have remained tightlipped, except to confirm that a mystery, celebrity grand marshal will lead the town parade this year. Then, a call to The Corkman office appeared to confirm that Daniel was, in fact, staying in the area.
MILLSTREET St. Patrick’s Day organisers are remaining tight lipped about the identity of a special guest who will be grand marshal for its annual parade.
Speculation that the one and only Daniel O’Donnell will grace the Millstreet Town Square is rife yet no official announcement from Millstreet hosts may be related to a stipulation centring on a television production featuring the iconic Donegal singer. If the exciting prospect comes to pass, the celebrity entertainer will be assured of a rousing welcome to Millstreet for the traditional 5pm start.
No stranger to Millstreet, highlighted by a New Years Eve Concert featured on RTE in 1994, Daniel holds an array of achievements, the only artist to score at least one hit in the UK album charts every year since 1988, an unprecedented and unbroken 30 year span. In doing so he has outshone everyone from Michael Jackson and Madonna to U2 and the Rolling Stones.
A regular on the Albums Chart with close on 40 albums released in addition to completing major tours in the USA, Australia, Canada, UK and Ireland.
His legion of fans are sure to descend on Millstreet on Saturday as Millstreet puts its best foot forward in salute of the national feast day. Again, the town’s Community Council are planning a lateafternoon celebration with an emphasis placed on school participation, increased prizemoney and entertainment for young and old.
Millstreet Pipe Band again figure on leading the parade and it complete a hectic day after a St. Patrick’s Day recital in Ballydaly after 9am Mass and participating in the Killarney parade.
The Denny Pop Memorial cup will go the best float on the day, there will be also a prize for the best window display in the town; this competition is open to all business and private residences in the town.
Participants are reminded that the Millstreet assembly is at the front carpark of the Green Glens on the Station Road from 4.30pm with the parade commencing at 5pm. Prizes on the day for the first, second and third place in each of the categories relating to best cultural presentation, best vintage display, Best Window Display, best celebrity look-alike, best Float, best group or club.
The official parade is up and away at 5pm from a start on Station Road and continues with a formal review stand in the Town Square. A special prize will be presented for the best window display in addition to a best centenary display by an individual or group.
The Millstreet Organising Committee are asking for people along the parade route to put out flags, buntings and banners to help us paint the town green on the day. The entertainment kicks off at 4.30 pm in the square with traditional Irish music and step dancers on the viewing stand by Millstreet Comhalthas Eireann.
Free face painting adds to the occasion and there will be a traditional Irish music session in the hotel following the parade. For a fun filled afternoon why not come along and celebrate our National Holiday with family and friends.
On Sunday, a parade in Carriganima commences at 3pm.