St. Patrick's Day Festival Magazine 2015 by The Irish Post

ST PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL

A MAYOR OF LONDON EVENT

Sunday 15 March 2015 Noon-6pm Trafalgar Square A FREE celebration of the best Irish music, dance, children’s activities, film, food & more

INSIDE: YOUR WHAT’S ON GUIDE, PARADE & FESTIVAL MAPS, CELEBRITY CHEF RECIPES & TOP TV PICKS FOR ST PATRICK’S DAY

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015 Welcome to your 2015 London St Patrick’s Day Festival & Parade guide

WHAT’S INSIDE Pages 4-5 Pages 6-7 Page 8-9 Page 12 Page 14 Pages 16-18 Page 20 Page 22 Pages 24-25 Page 28 Page 30 Page 32 Pages 34-35 Page 36 Page 38 Pages 40-41 Page 42

An introduction to the Festival & Parade Who’s taking part Parade route map On stage at Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square map Meet the acts Irish Food Market St Patrick’s Day recipes London’s best Irish bars Festival fun for the family Fashion and poetry events Tea dance & useful contacts Irish Film Festival Heritage walks The world’s going green Top TV picks Q&A with Parade Grand Marshal Barry McGuigan

St Patrick’s Day Festival Guide is designed and produced by The Irish Post 1 Lindsey Street, Smithfield, London EC1A9HP #StPatsDayLDN @LDN-gov @theirishpost Editor: Siobhán Breatnach Contributors: Fiona Audley, Nemesha Balasundaram, James Mulhall, Katy Harrington Photography: Malcolm McNally, Getty Production: Lawrence Forrest, Gerard Donaghy, Carl McMillan Advertising: Sarah Murphy, Katie Brown, Daniel Downer, Shane Creelman

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Let the festivities begin This year’s Mayor of London St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival promises to be one of the best yet with over 100,000 people expected to attend the city’s giant celebration of Irishness. On Sunday, March 15 head to Trafalgar Square from noon to 6pm to enjoy a fun day for all the family. Once the main Parade has made its way through the streets of London an afternoon

Commitments as well as a range of exciting bands and singers such as Hermitage Green, Lethal Dialect, Crossharbour and Jack L. This year’s Parade Grand Marshal is boxing legend Barry McGuigan who will lead over 70 groups and organisations across the city in a colourful procession featuring a raft of spectacular street This yea theatre and r’ s o ffi c ial Festival m e pageantry, d ia partner is The Irish P marching bands the team ost – look out fo r a and music. commun t Trafalgar Square ity stall s ’s And don’t forget e c not visit tion. Or w www hy to take part in the for more .irishpost.co.u k informati umbrella events on on St Patrick’s Day eve taking place around near you nts the city as part of the . official Festival. of music, dance and children’s activities You can find details of all awaits to keep everyone entertained. those events, which include There’s plenty on offer for foodies too – with the fashion exhibitions, walking tours, a return of the Irish Food Market offering lots of tea dance and film festival, inside this magazine. tempting and tasty treats from the Emerald Isle. Tourism Ireland is also playing a part in this year’s This year’s Festival will also give you the chance Festival. As part of their iconic Global Greening to meet and mingle with Irish community groups initiative - which sees landmarks around the as well as getting up close and personal with world turn green to mark St Patrick’s Day – this showbiz and sports stars. year Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square will There’s lots of great music and dance acts light up for the very first time – making it the planned on the main stage throughout the day perfect finale to the 2015 Mayor of London from Lord of the Dance to West End musical The St Patrick’s Day Festival. TWEET US! Follow all the action on Twitter #StPatsDayLDN @LDN-gov @theirishpost

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

A message from the Mayor

A message from the Ambassador

It’s a pleasure to once again be supporting one of the greatest St Patrick’s Day celebrations anywhere in the world. Our free event is an opportunity to showcase the culture and heritage of the Irish community and their ongoing contribution to our city’s success. From laying our roads and helping to build our underground system to the financial services and our cultural life, Irish men and women have been key to London’s prosperity and its dynamism. The Irish are also known for their love of a good party and London’s festivities never disappoint. The free festival in Trafalgar Square will be a lively celebration of the Emerald Isle, offering a terrific line-up of Irish music, song and dance, as well as food and drink – with plenty of things for the kids to enjoy. We’re also urging as many people as possible to line the streets to cheers on the colourful parade of giant creatures, community floats, Irish dance groups and musical bands as it makes its way through the heart of the capital.

My wife Greta and I would like to extend our best wishes for a very happy St Patrick’s Day. During the St Patrick’s period, both Greta and I feel especially privileged to be representing Ireland here in Britain. The scale and diversity of the St Patrick’s Day celebrations taking place throughout the month of March, as Irish people and friends of Ireland come together to celebrate and share our rich culture and heritage, truly highlight the strength and vibrancy of our community here. I would like to thank the Irish community in Britain for your tireless work in the organisation of so many St Patrick’s festivals, parades and community events throughout the country. These celebrations not only bring the Irish community in Britain together, but also make an important contribution to spreading a positive message about Ireland, our people, our culture and our heritage. Your support of Ireland in this way makes a real difference and is deeply valued. 2015 is an exciting year for Ireland. It marks the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ireland’s greatest poet, W.B. Yeats, which will be marked by an international programme of cultural events

Here’s to a happy St Patrick’s Day. Lá Fhéile Phádraig Shona Duit! Boris Johnson Mayor of London

190x130 (St Patricks)_Layout 1 24/02/2015 10:01 Page 1

under the banner Yeats2015. 2015 is also the year of Irish Design, an exciting initiative which offers an enormous opportunity for Irish design, in its broadest description, to be showcased internationally. I would encourage the Irish community here in Britain to embrace and participate in these important celebrations of Irish creativity and culture. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate The Irish Post on its 45th anniversary and to pay tribute to the important role The Irish Post has played, over so many years, in promoting Ireland and the interests of the Irish community here in Britain.

Beannachtaí na féile Pádraig oraibh go léir! Daniel Mulhall Ambassador of Ireland to Britain

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London St Patrick’s celebrations 2015 THE BIG PARADE TAKES TO THE CAPITAL’S STREETS

rom noon on Sunday, March 15 hundreds of people will take to London’s streets to wind their way around the capital in a colourful and energetic display of Irishness to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. From community organisations to dance schools, music groups to marching bands there will be top tunes and terrific times go leor in store.

See ere th you sure you’re e h Make o see all t t e e ther ion com act ife! to l

With larger than life street performers, marching bands, energetic dancers and double decker buses full of parade participants, make sure you grab your spot on the pavement to watch the magic meander by. With more than 70 groups taking part this year, watch out for your favourites and cheer them on when they pass by decked out head-to-toe in 40 shades of green.

Just some of the groups you’ll meet... ■ Cavan Association London ■ Southwark Irish Pensioners Project ■ Innisfree Housing Association ■ London Tipperary Association ■ Cork Association London ■ Brothers and Shalloe Pearse GAA Club ■ Donegal Association London ■ London Fire Brigade Emerald Society ■ Meath Association London ■ Fermanagh Association London ■ Donegal Association London – St Peter’s Band Mountcharles ■ Tir Chonaill Gaels Gaelic Football Club ■ Kerry Association London ■ The London Irish Centre ■ London Wexford Association ■ Glen Rovers GAA Club ■ Leitrim Association London

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Some more of this year’s participants...

■ Mayo Association London ■ Kilburn Gaels Hurling Club ■ Monaghan Association London ■ Donegal Association London – Buion Ceoil Rann na Feirste ■ Galway Association London

■ Bayrem Pageantry ■ Bolivian Heritage Dancers ■ Hare Krishna ■ Olympic Ceremonies Crew and Pandemonium Drummers ■ M Moss Repairs Ltd ■ FM Conway Ltd ■ Anerley Across Charity ■ John Shields Utilities ■ Irish Chaplaincy in Britain ■ McGovern Brothers ■ London Irish Vintage Club ■ Connolly Association ■ Harrier Grabs Ltd ■ Scartaglen ■ Derry McDermott ■ The Flynn Family

■ Police Emerald Society UK ■ George Killoughery Ltd ■ GOAL UK ■ The Irish Wolfhound Dog ■ The London 1916 Centenary Commemoration Committee ■ St Joseph’s School ■ Mullens and the Cirencester Jiver’s ■ Corner Boy ■ The McCarthy O’Rourke Academy of Irish Dance ■ The Trolly Birds ■ Waterford Association London ■ Inisfree Housing Association ■ Fr Murphy’s Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Club

Enjoy some top music and dance... ■ Caporales San Simon Londres Dance Group ■ Morenada Bloque Kantuta Dancers ■ The Drumenagh School of Irish Dance ■ Talentos Dance Group ■ South London Irish Dancers ■ Essex Caledonian Pipe Band ■ West London Comhaltas ■ Wexford’s Ballidagan Band ■ Meath’s KNS Accordian Band ■ Theresa O’Donoghue School of Irish Dance

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

TAKE CENTRE STAGE March 15 Trafalgar Square Noon-6pm

From stars of the West End to some of Ireland’s most popular music and dance acts, there’s no shortage of live entertainment for all the family at this year’s London St Patrick’s Day Festival. With MC Maggie Doyle kicking off the festivities make sure to catch your favourite acts live on stage. Noon 12.30pm 1pm 1.10pm 1.30pm 1.55pm 2.30pm 3pm 3.15pm 3.50pm 4.30pm 5pm 5.20pm

St Patrick’s Troupe 21st Anniversary Celebration Commitments - The Musical Speeches W.B. Yeats 150th Anniversary Tributes from Irish Ambassador Dan Mulhall and Young Poet Laureate for London Aisling Fahey Irish Music and Dance from the Mulkere Academy of Music St Patrick’s Day Talent Show Final Hermitage Green Rugby World Cup Presentation Lethal Dialect & Special Guest Vocalists CrossHarbour Jack L & the Late Late Show House Band Lord of the Dance The Big Singalong Finale with the Late Late Show House Band, the Ceiliúradh Choir & Special Guests

HOW TO GET THERE

By Train The nearest mainline railway station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross which is only 325m or approximately three minutes’ walk from Trafalgar Square. By Tube Charing Cross Underground Station, served by the Northern and Bakerloo lines, is the closest Underground Station to Trafalgar Square. For step-free access the nearest Underground Station is Westminster Underground Station served by the Jubilee, District and Circle lines. Outside Westminster station buses 12, 24, 88 or 453 will stop at a bus stop within 150m of Trafalgar Square. By Bus Bus services will be suspended on Piccadilly as the St Patrick’s Day parade gathers from

9.30am and then around the parade route (including Trafalgar Square) from 11am. The affected bus routes include: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 15H, 19, 22, 23, 24, 29, 38, 53, 87, 88, 91, 94, 139, 159, 176, 453, C2. These changes to the service will remain in place until the parade has finished.

PLAN AHEAD ON PARADE DAY Drivers are advised to, wherever possible, avoid affected areas and allow more time to travel. The parade will travel along Whitehall via Piccadilly, Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Waterloo Place, Pall Mall, Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, (southwest side), Whitehall and into Whitehall Place, therefore these roads will be closed until the parade has finished. To see detailed road closures visit tfl.gov.uk/roads/status To plan ahead on the day go to tfl.gov.uk/ journeyplanner

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Trafalgar Square Map

IRISH FOOD MARKET

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Centre stage for St Patrick’s Day fun MEET SOME OF THE PERFORMERS AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL...

Commitments – The Musical Get ready to commit this St Patrick’s Day when the West End stars from Commitments – The Musical take to the stage in Trafalgar Square to treat the crowd to some of the show’s soul classics such as Try A Little Tenderness, Mustang Sally and more. Now in its second year on London’s West End the show has been adapted from the novel by Irish Booker prize-winning author Roddy Doyle and tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young working class music fan, who shapes an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians and friends into an amazing live act, the finest soul band Dublin has ever produced.

HERMITAGE GREEN Five years since forming after a spontaneous jam session and Limerick folk-rock group Hermitage Green will bring their tribal mix of bodhrán, djembe and vocal harmonies to London. Having spent the last couple of years touring Ireland, Britain and Australia, their distinctive sound has won them legions of fans from as far away as the US, the Middle East, and South Africa. The band released their debut EP, The Gathering in 2012 and it rocketed straight into number 1 in the iTunes chart. A curious arrangement of instruments carried with fast-paced African percussion gives Hermitage Green an unmissable and distinctive live sound.

THE CEILIÚRADH CHOIR SOLD ON SOUL: Natalie Hope, Brian Gilligan and Sarah O'Connor from Commitments - The Musical

Members of this very special London Irish choir will take to the stage at Trafalgar Square on March 15 having performed to great acclaim at the Royal Albert Hall last April as part of the Irish President’s historic state visit to Britain. There, members of the capital’s Irish community came together under the direction of Gary Dunne to perform with host of artists and musicians including special guests Paul Brady, The Gloaming, Elvis Costello, John Sheahan, Glen Hansard and Imelda May. See this choir hit the high notes again at the Festival.

Lethal Dialect + Special Guests Lethal Dialect is a force to be reckoned with and is at the forefront of the Irish rap scene. The Dublin rapper emerged from the underground hip hop scene of North Dublin when he released his critically acclaimed album 1988 in 2014. Wowing fans with his thoughtful lyrics and unforgettable hooks, he has given hope to Irish hip hop fans who, until now, were left with little homegrown talent to boast about. Following a Christmas tour supporting Damien Dempsey, Lethal Dialect will embark on headline dates around Ireland, Britain and Europe.

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Crossharbour Trad and folk fans are in for a treat at Trafalgar Square when Crossharbour take to the stage. This dynamic band emerged from London’s thriving traditional Irish music scene to release their debut album last year.

Ireland’s Got Talent... Choose your favourite act on March 15! Over the last couple of months, bands and performers have been battling it out for the chance to win a slot on the main stage at this year’s St Patrick’s Day Festival. The best four acts, as selected by a panel of judges, will perform on the Sunday for the crowds on Trafalgar Square’s main stage. The overall winner – which will be chosen by the audience on the day – will also be awarded a £500 prize. The lucky winner follows in a long and prestigious line-up of musicians who have performed at previous London St Patrick’s Day Festival, such as Damien Dempsey, The Coronas, Divine Comedy, Sharon Shannon and The Saw Doctors.

Fusing well-loved traditional tunes and songs with self-penned material and original arrangements, Crossharbour are gaining recognition for their highly virtuosic and energetic yet polished performances. They return to the London St Patrick’s Day Festival following sold-out gig at the likes of the London Return to Camden Town

Late Late Late Show House Band, expect to hear his unique blend of rock & roll, ethereal balladry, and occasional post-punk flourishes. LORD OF THE DANCE

Meet Crossharbour: Tad Sargent – Bódhran, Bouzouki-Guitar Órlaith McAuliffe – Flute, Whistles Rosie Hodgson - Vocals Sam Proctor – Fiddle Philippe Barnes – Guitar, Flute, Whistles

W.B ANN . YEATS IVER TRIB SARY Irish UTE Dan Ambass ador Mulh all to the Y oung and Aisl Britain in P Lond on, t oet Laure g Fahey, a ate f k to ce e to or t anniv lebrate th he stage e 150 ersar y of W of the b th B Yea irth ts.

In 1994 Michael Flatley changed the face of Irish dance forever with his breath-taking Riverdance performance. He went on to create Lord of the Dance, which debuted at the Point Theatre in Dublin in 1996. And since then his name and the Lord of the Dance

brand have become synonymous with spectacular artistry and grand scale productions that have mesmerised audiences around the globe. His Lord of the Dance show has broken box office records all over the world including a record breaking run of 21 consecutive shows at London’s legendary Wembley Arena in 1998, which still stands to this day. In 2010 he reprised his role as Lord of the Dance and last year was honoured to debut Lord of the Dance; Dangerous Games at the historic London Palladium. That show embarks on a multi-date British tour from April to July with Manchester Irish dancer James Keegan in the lead role.

MULKERE ACADEMY OF IRISH MUSIC

JACK L & THE LATE LATE SHOW HOUSE BAND Kildare singer songwriter Jack Lukeman has used his evocative croon and natural charm to earn himself a devoted fan base in Ireland. When he performs in London this month, backed by the

Festival and the Temple Bar Festival in Dublin.

CROWD PLEASERS: The Late Late Show Band

Led by inspirational teacher Brendan Mulkere, the Mulkere Academy of Irish Music will bring its lively mix of traditional music to Trafalgar Square this month. Expect to see everything from fiddles to flutes and banjos to button accordions. The Academy itself is steeped in musical history with past pupils including many well-known musicians such as John Carty, James Carty, Niall Keegan, Brian Kelly, John Blake and Michael and Joe Searson.

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Irish Food Market March 15 Trafalgar Square Noon-6pm

St Patrick’s Day was traditionally known as a day of feasting, so use this as an excuse to head into the heart of London to sample some of Ireland’s finest produce at the Irish Food Market, which will be one of the highlights at the Mayor of London’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations. Sponsored by Kerrygold and brought to you by Bord Bia, the free event is taking place in Trafalgar Square on March 15. And the Irish Food Market is the perfect way to sample the true flavour of Ireland and experience a warm welcome from the producers themselves. From farmhouse cheeses and traditional breads to smoked fish and luxury confectionery, the Irish Food Board (Bord Bia) brings the very best of Ireland to central London. A great day out for foodies and families alike, just remember your shamrock! Look out for the following tasty treats... ■ Broderick’s chocolate and caramel snack bars ■ Burren Smokehouse smoked salmon sandwiches ■ Keogh’s crisps ■ Kerrygold butter ■ Nomadic yoghurt & oat clusters ■ Foods of Athenry biscuits, snacks and cakes ■ Your Irish Shop’s chocolate, tea, jams and honey ■ Jelly Bean sweets

Renowned Irish chefs Darina Allen and Nevin Maguire share their St Patrick’s Day favourites:

What, for you, makes a great Saint Patrick’s Day? Getting together with family and friends around the kitchen table and enjoying a meal to celebrate Irish food culture and tradition. NEVEN MAGUIRE

DARINA ALLEN What is the essential food ingredient to make a great Saint Patrick’s Day? Colcannon with a big lump of Kerrygold butter melting in the middle.

What is the essential nonfood ingredient to make a great Saint Patrick’s Day? Spending time with the family – a day to be proud of.

Meet one of Ireland’s favourite chefs Clodagh McKenna will be signing copies of her latest cookbook called Clodagh’s Irish Kitchen on Festival day from noon-2pm.

What is your favourite Saint Patrick’s Day dish? Hard to beat Irish stew done well – a hug in a bowl from your mum.

Cook up a tasty dessert with a difference this St Patrick’s Day... DONAL SKEHAN’S CARAGEEN JELLY Serves 4 Carageen is a type of seaweed found in Irish waters, particularly along the rocky Atlantic coasts. Apart from it being extremely healthy, it is also a great alternative to gelatin as when boiled it forms a jelly. A seaweed jelly may sound a bit odd but trust me, this is a truly unique and delicious little dessert.

Ingredients 15g carrageen 450 ml (1 pint) water 2 teaspoons lemon juice sugar to taste small wine glass sweet sherry Method Soak the carrageen in water for a few hours, then rinse well and drain. Put in a pan with the water and simmer for about 20 minutes, then strain and discard the carrageen. Add the lemon juice, sugar and finally the sherry to the strained liquid, and stir. Wet a mould, pour in the liquid and put in a cold place to set.

For more easy-to-make recipes from Donal see over

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Dublin craft beers • cask beer • guest beers Special Irish food menu • including: Irish Stew, Dublin Coddle, Bacon & Cabbage

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Friday 13th

Saturday 14th

Cheltenham Gold Cup 3.20pm

Rugby: Wales v Ireland 2.30 England v Scotland 5.00

Plus LIVE MUSIC with

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Sunday 15th Parade to Trafalgar Square Rugby: Italy v France 3.00

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Tuesday 17th St. Patrick’s Day LIVE MUSIC with

THE HARES and Late Bar

Saturday 21st Final Day of Six Nations Italy v Wales 12.30 • Scotland v Ireland 2.30 • England v France 5pm

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

A taste of Ireland It might be the nation’s favourite Irish meal but if you fancy a change from bacon and cabbage this March 17 then take a leaf out of Donal Skehan’s book. Here the Dublin-based TV cook and presenter shows us how to prepare the perfect St Patrick’s Day feast at home.

Peel and slice the onions into a saucepan, just cover with water and bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Drain, but reserve the liquid. Heat the butter in another pan, then add the onions and sugar, and cook until they are quite soft. Beat with a fork to purée them. Add the flour and let it cook for a STUFFED PORK CHOPS minute, then add the warm milk and Serves 4 enough of the onion liquor to make a thickish sauce. Season well, then add Ingredients the cream. 4 lean pork chops Grill the chops well on one side only, black pepper transfer cooked side down into a 4 large onions, peeled and sliced roasting pan and cover the tops with 50 g (2 oz) butter the onion sauce. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon sugar breadcrumbs on top, 1 tablespoon flour, seasoned then a dot of 150 ml (¼ pint) warm milk butter and CHEF’S TIP: If 2 tablespoons cream pepper. you like, the chops 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs Put into a hot can be grilled in the 1 tablespoon butter oven at usual way and the sauce 210°c/425°F/ served with them, but gas mark 7 the crispy topping Method for about 20 above is very good. Trim the chops and take out minutes or until the small piece of bone, then the top is crisply put onto a grilling pan and dust browned. with black pepper.

APPLE CRUMBLE CAKE Serves 6-8 “Apple crumble is one of my most favourite desserts of all time, I remember making it growing up and to this day still swoon at the smell of it coming out of the oven. This Irish apple crumble cake is nice little twist on the classic with a moist apple cake interior and a light crumbly topping. That classic combination of apple and blackberries could also be used here.” Ingredients 110g butter plus extra for greasing 150g soft light brown sugar 2 large free range eggs 210g plain flour, sifted 1 teaspoon baking powder pinch of salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 300g peeled, cored and sliced cooking apple (Shouldn’t be more than one large one) For the crumble topping: 50g of vanilla sugar (or substitute with caster sugar) 50g of plain flour 50g of butter

Method Preheat the oven to 180°C, grease and line a 20cm cake tin with a removable base. With an electric hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar in a large bowl until pale. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until they are incorporated. Fold through the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until you have a thick cake batter. Stir through the apple and pour the batter into the cake tin. The batter will be thick, so use a spatula to spread across the base of the tin. Using a handblender with a food processor attachment, blitz the ingredients for the crumble topping until you get left with rough crumbs. You can also do this by hand in a bowl using your fingertips to combine the ingredients together. Sprinkle the crumble topping on top of the batter. Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Remove from the oven and leave to cool.

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

BESTB IRISH I L HE THE

ARS N N ONDON ONDON ARS

The Porterhouse

t’s St Patrick’s Day and so we decided to research and compile our own highly unscientific list of the best Irish pubs in the capital. It’s a tough job but CAROLINE O’DONOGHUE was willing to do it...

What makes Irish pubs such a hit? Well, based on our ‘extensive’ research it has a lot to do with the innate oddness of Irish pubs: the rough-andreadiness of the surroundings, the fact that the phrase ‘barred for life’ is bandied around constantly but never actually used, the acceptance and encouragement of dogs in the bar. Irish pubs are real and these are just six of the best in London. See www.irishpost.co.uk for more.

THE CHURCHILL ARMS 119 Kensington Church Street W8 7LN There’s a lot of argument on the subject of what makes an Irish pub truly Irish. Purists say that it has to stock red lemonade and show GAA matches. Others say that the mark of a true Irish pub is that, as an English person, you feel ever so slightly nervous about going inside. If that is true, then The Churchill Arms fails by name alone. In all other respects though, it’s as Irish as a Daniel O’Donnell calendar. Run by proud paddy Gerry O’Brien, The Churchill Arms is an anomaly: an Irish pub with an English name and a Thai menu. If you haven’t been yet, you’ve almost certainly seen a picture of it. It’s famous for its flower boxes that line the walls and spill out onto the footpath and tumble out of the windows. The Chelsea Flower Show even gave it

the ‘London in Bloom’ award two years in a row - and it’s not hard to see why. It’s the Secret Garden meets steerage on the Titanic, and if you’re having trouble imagining what that could possibly look like, then it’s time to pay the Churchill Arms a visit. BEST FOR: Your Instagram account

THE AULD SHILLELAGH 105 Stoke Newington Church Street N16 0UD

THE TIPPERARY 66 Fleet Street City of London EC4Y 1HT

When ‘researching’ this piece, there was no pub more highly nominated than the Auld Shillelagh. To many north Londoners it is the Irish pub and it’s not difficult to see why. While it creates all the illusion of being a hole-in-the-wall five-stoolsand-one-dartboard establishment from the outside, the inside of the Auld Shillelagh is as long and winding as a Kerry road. It’s the only place on Church Street you’re likely to spot a bodhrán and the only place in London that has live traditional music and simultaneously, a David Bowie night every Tuesday. The commitment to Bowie is a thread that runs through the Auld Shillelagh, with its own spot on the menu – fancy a Diamond Hot Dog? Another interesting point about Irish pubs – one theme is never enough. Not satisfied with just being an Irish pub, it’s a Bowie Irish pub. The Churchill Arms (which also made the list) meanwhile, isn’t just an Irish bar – it’s an Irish/Thai/War me morabilia bar. Go figure. BEST FOR: Live music, salt and vinegar Taytos

As the first pub to serve Guinness outside of Ireland, The Tipperary is as steeped in history as it is foamy moustaches. The Tipperary wears its history proudly and is generally considered to be the Grand Old

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015 Dame of the Irish pub circuit. It’s slender and respectable, with an impressive collection of 16 Irish whiskeys to choose from. Like all Irish pubs, most who love it will admit that it needs “a bit of an upgrade. But does it? We love Irish pubs because the paint is peeling and the landlord remembers both World Wars – not in spite of it. The Tipperary’s key charm is its location: in a part of London so sleek and corporate, it feels like a blessing to have a proper old man pub in the heart of it. And no one’s impressed by your American Express black card. BEST FOR: Impressive whiskey choice THE RAMBLE INN 223 Mitcham Road Tooting SW17 9JG This Tooting jewel is alternately called a hole or heaven, depending on who rambles in. It has its own weekly poker night, an acoustic evening (whose reoccurring stars include Rambling Lee, Great Phil Philpot and the Fantastic Smiling Knife) and all the hurling you can shake a stick at – so who’s complaining? One customer

describes The Ramble Inn as the last stand in the “Tooting yuppies invasion”, and there’s certainly nothing yuppie-ish about this traditional Irish boozer. Like all great Irish pubs, it’s a hive of activity around all the big sporting events, and shows everything from GAA to horse racing to hurling. Make sure to turn up early though if you want to claim a seat during the big matches. It’s also weirdly proud of the fact that it cleans its beer lines every week, if that means anything to you. BEST FOR: Sport, avoiding yuppies CLADDAGH RING 10 Church Road NW4 4EA

simultaneously providing a warm atmosphere for everyone who comes through its doors. BEST FOR: A big night out, a decent Sunday lunch THE PORTERHOUSE 21-22 Maiden Lane WC2E 7NA A complete maze of floors and stairs, The Porterhouse feels like a bit of a labyrinth of drunken memories on first entry. Once you’ve safely located your table, the bar and the nearest bathroom however, the fun can really begin. With plenty of beer choice, outdoor heated seating (always a plus in the

middle of the city) and live music, The Porterhouse has everything you need. It’s a sprawling, endless spin of fun that always ends in a night full of stories and a packet full of crisps. It also does a relatively cheap Sunday roast for central London, making it the ultimate tipsy-day-towild-night pub: certainly not what you would generally expect from the shopping-centric Covent Garden. While the music does invite dancing, there’s plenty of cosy nooks and crannies to have a chat in – or to make a play for your office crush in privacy, if you prefer... BEST FOR: After work drinks, a bit of a dance

A traditional Irish pub with a student ‘ring’ to it (see what I did there?) the Claddagh Ring has a great mix of live music, sport and killer nights out. Established in 1991, the Ring is distinctive for its intricately carved wooden structures, sleek marble décor and warm ambiance. There’s not too many places you can get a lamb stew and a dance on, but the Claddagh Ring serves both with enthusiasm. It’s also known for taking care of its regulars, while

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Family fun As well as the fantastic selection of top class music and dance taking place on the Trafalgar Square stage, there’s plenty more going on to keep all the family entertained on March 15. Head to the North Terrace and visit the Children’s Marquee where all the family can take part in a selction of arts and crafts activities. Vistors to the marquee can enjoy a range of fun and games from making homemade candles (watch the wax magically melt in your hand) to decorating pots of gold and treasure boxes with chocolate coins inside. Or why not get into the spirit of St Patrick’s Day by following the rainbow to your very own crock of gold where you’ll get the chance to make shamrock-covered leprechaun hats to wear and keep.

Meet the community

March 15 North Terrace Trafalgar Square Noon-5pm

And to help you look the part on Festival day there will also be volunteers on hand face-painting and giving out lots of St Patrick’s Day-themed nail art stickers. Capture the moment At the marquee look out for the special dress-up box full of great costumes to give you that St Patrick’s Day feeling and have your picture taken in the mini photo booth on site. You might also spot pirate queen Grace O’Malley and Celtic warrior Fionn Mac Cumhaill, so make sure to say hi. There will also be lots of giant parade characters floating about so have your picture taken with them as the perfect souvenir.

IRISH VOICES Funded by the He ri tage Lottery Fund, the There will be a number of community stalls in Trafalgar Square as part of this year’s London Irish Voices project is St Patrick’s Day Festival, so make sure to stop by and see what’s on offer. an Among those taking part is the Rugby World Cup team where you’ll have the chance to get histor y archive showca oral si up close and personal with some Irish rugby legends and the Webb Ellis Cup. voices of the London St ng the And if that’s not enough, sports fans can also drop by to meet the London Irish Rugby Club Patrick’s Day Parade across five team at their stall. decades. Media partners The Irish Post newspaper, who are celebrating 45 years throughout 2015, It was set up to reflect the will also be on hand with lots of free goodies to giveaway. im po rt an ce of th e parade in Meanwhile O2 and Tourism Ireland, two of the Festival’s sponsors, will be there on the day the transformation of too — so make sure to look out for them at Trafalgar Square. the Among the other community stalls will be the Irish Cultural Centre and the London Irish cultural identity of the Centre, the Irish in Britain charity, Irish Voices and Votes for Irish Citizens Abroad, a campaign by Irish in London. London Irish community members calling for the right of Irish citizens living outside the island of Ireland to vote in general elections in the Republic.

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

MILTON KEYNES IRISH CENTRE PRESENTS:

FESTIVAL OF IRISH CULTURE SATURDAY 7 MARCH - WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH 2015

Saturday 7 March Irish Language Day Expert tuition and a tasty buffet lunch All for just £5 11am – 4.30pm Colaiste na Gael – beginners, improvers- all welcome

Parade starts at 2pm to the band stand in Bletchley Live music at the band stand from 2pm Join in our parade, everyone is welcome Music & Irish dancing in the Irish Centre all afternoon

Sunday 8 March

Tuesday 17 March

Vagabond Cinema presents: Film – Jimmy’s Hall A true life heart rendering story of a community in Co. Leitrim Showing at 8pm Admission: £3 for adults, children free

Saturday 14 March St Patrick’s Day Parade Assemble at Irish Centre at 1.30pm

Dan McHugh & Eamon’s Country Sounds 8pm till late Admission: £5

Wednesday 18 March Cabbage and bacon lunch being served from 1pm (must be prebooked) £5 – all proceeds go to Willen Hospice Sponsored by: Irish Immigrant Support Programme Bletchley & Fenny Town Council Milton Keynes Irish Centre

MILTON KEYNES IRISH CENTRE, FENNY STRATFORD (OPPOSITE DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRE) MK2 2HX – 01908 375978

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

A number of umbrella events, including a tea dance and walking tours, will be taking place in London this year as part of the Mayor’s St Patrick’s Day Festival, check out what’s on over the coming pages…

March 16-25 City Hall, London 8am-6pm

Designs on fashion IRISH Design 2015 is now in full swing and the St Patrick’s Day Festival is giving Ireland’s talented designers the opportunity to show off their skills. ID2015 is for designers from all walks of life — but it’s fashion that will take centre stage at this year’s festival. Some of the top fashion designers from Ireland will be on hand to wow the British industry with their unique and creative designs as part of the Second Skin exhibition. Second Skin is an exhibition that was first shown in Kilkenny late last year. It aims to explore the links between consumption and production in the fashion industry — taking the audience from the textures used to the final product. Four of the top fashion labels in Ireland will be taking part: Lennon Courtney, NATALIEBCOLEMAN, Joanne Hynes and Jennifer Rothwell. Second Skin provided the labels, and the designers, with a one-of-a-kind challenge — to design, source and produce a garment or range of clothing in Ireland and to document the opportunities and challenges in doing so. “In the realisation of these garments, designers collaborated with and were supported by a myriad of third level institutions, organisations and producers in Dublin, Donegal, Derry, Kilkenny and Wicklow,” said the exhibition’s curator Louise Allen. The fruits of their labour have

been touring, already having been shown in the National Craft Gallery in Kilkenny, and now the designs will be displayed in Britain to mark St Patrick’s Day. With the global fashion industry worth a colossal $1.3trillion a year, Second Skin aims to put the focus on on Ireland as a fashion talent hot spot. It also hopes to create opportunities on Irish shores for fashion graduates, who during the recession were often forced to move to the fashion capitals of London, Paris or New York to further their careers. The exhibition also aims to show that Ireland offers a unique opportunity for cultural designs — something that will hopefully help tap into the economic benefits that a booming fashion industry can bring. Now, these designers are gearing up to display their work to the British public, with the inspiring surroundings of London’s City Hall the backdrop for the display. Second Skin will be open to the public, free of charge, from March 16-25 between the hours of 8am and 6pm excluding weekends, with an early finish of 5.30pm on Fridays.

James Mulhall

ON TREND: Designs by Lennon Courtney, above, and Joanne Hayes, left All images by Rich Gilligan, courtesy of the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland

Views and verse on the banks of the Thames Where better to enjoy spectacular views over the Thames and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of William Butler Yeats than at this special event being hosted at London’s City Hall on March 10. The Irish Cultural Centre, in association with the Irish Embassy, is holding a public

lecture — The Fascination of What’s Difficult: W.B. Yeats and Irish History — with Professor Roy Foster. One of Ireland’s best known historians, Prof. Foster is Carroll Professor of Irish History at Hertford College, Oxford University and has written extensively on Irish history, politics and culture.

His two-volume biography of Yeats was awarded the James Tait Black Memorial Prize. Tickets are available from Eventbrite. http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ For ticket enquiries you can also contact the Irish Cultural Centre on 020 8563 8232.

March 10 City Hall, London 7.30pm Free event

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

SHALL WE DANCE? Dust down your gúna, shine up your dancing shoes and join in this year’s St Patrick’s Day afternoon tea dance at Westminster Cathedral Hall. Live music with tea, coffee and cake will be available from the refreshment stall throughout the afternoon. The entrance to Westminster Cathedral Hall - which is just a short distance from Victoria station, is situated in Ambrosden Avenue, London SW1 1QW to the side of the cathedral. FREE EVENT DOORS OPEN AT 2PM

DAY, SUN 5 CH 1 MAR INSTER LL TM WES RAL HA D E H CAT 2 - 6pm

Useful Contacts IRISH IN BRITAIN Head Office: 356 Holloway Road, London N7 6PA Tel: 020 7697 4081 Chief Executive: Jennie McShannon

Irish in Britain is a national umbrella organisation established in 1973, which draws together Irish clubs and societies. ICAP Immigrant Counselling and Psychotherapy, 96 Moray Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 3LA Tel: 0207 272 7906 Web: www.icap.org.uk Founder and Honorary President: Teresa Gallagher

icap aims to provide an accessible psychotherapy services and promote mental health and well-being.

IRISH YOUTH FOUNDATION (UK) 26-28 Hammersmith Grove, London W6 7HA Tel: 020 8748 9640 Web: www.iyf.org.uk Chairman: John Dwyer Head of Operations: Linda Tanner

The purpose of the IYF (UK) is to raise funds and award grants to help improve the lives of children and young disadvantaged Irish people in Britain and the North of Ireland. LONDON IRISH CENTRE 50-52 Camden Square London NW1 9XB Tel: 020 7916 2222 Web: www.londonirishcentre.org CEO: David Barlow For 60 years, The London Irish Centre has been both supporting Irish people in London and

promoting Irish arts and culture. Its welfare service is the largest for Irish people outside of Ireland and each year works with thousands of people to improve their housing, income, access to health, and social inclusion opportunities. IRISH CULTURAL CENTRE HAMMERSMITH Blacks Road, London W6 9DT Tel: 020 8563 8232 Web: www.irishculturalcentre.co.uk General Manager: Collette Mackin

The Irish Cultural Centre has been established since 1995 and provides an adventurous weekly programme in Britain, featuring Ireland’s best traditional and contemporary musicians, an Irish film programme, literary events, theatre, art exhibitions and more.

THE IRISH POST 1 Lindsey Street, Smithfield, London EC1A9HP Tel: 020 8900 4137 Web: www.irishpost.co.uk Publisher: Elgin Loane Editor: Siobhán Breatnach Regional Editor: Fiona Audley Sports Editor: Cian O’Connell

The Irish Post is the biggest selling newspaper for the Irish in Britain. A trusted brand for over 45 years it offers exclusive news and features and the latest in business, entertainment, travel and sport, both in print and online at www.irishpost.co.uk. EMBASSY OF IRELAND, LONDON 17 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7HR Tel: 020 7235 2171 Web: www.embassyofireland.co.uk Irish Ambassador to Britain: Dan Mulhall Passport Office: 114a Cromwell Road, London SW7 4ES Tel: 0207 373 4339

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Happy St Patrick’s Day 2015 from the Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith The new Irish Cultural Centre building in Hammersmith, London will present the best of Irish creative talent and stage networking events, presentations, conferences and more. The new building will comprise of a performance space, multi-purpose suites for education, practice or meetings, public areas that can also be used as performances or gallery spaces, plus a bar/cafe area. We look forward to opening our new building in the coming year! The ICC are still running their Education, Arts and Elders programmes and will be celebrating St Patrick’s 2015 with the following events: 10 March, City Hall Roy Foster Lecture on W. B. Yeats - ICC, Irish Embassy & Mayor of London Collaboration 13 March, Irish Embassy ICC Children’s Culture Camp 15 March, Trafalgar Square ICC present Mulkere Academy of Music on the Main Stage in Trafalgar Square 19 March, Hammersmith Town Hall St Patrick’s Day Elders Party 28 March, Madejski Stadium London Irish St Patrick’s Day Game. Each year London Irish host a St. Patrick’s Party at the Madejski Stadium Reading. This year Irish take on Newcastle Falcons in the Aviva Premiership. The ICC will be there taking part in various activities so look out for us! For more information about What’s On at the ICC and/or what we do check out our website:

www.irishculturalcentre.co.uk or call us on: 020 8563 8232

At the REA Irish Property Exhibition, we help people buy homes from all over Ireland. Join us in London on the 21st of March, 2015 Register to attend on realestatealliance.ie/london

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Cultural Centre

38 Sheraton Business Centre Wadsworth Close Greenford Middlesex UB6 7JB

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

5 CH 1 MAR HARLES CE C PRIN INEMA re C Squa ster Leice 0-5.30pm 12.3 EVENT FREE

HIS year represents a landmark for the Irish Film Festival London, marking five years as Britain’s top film festival for Irish productions. JAMES MULHALL reports As with any anniversary, there will be celebrations, but the day-to-day running of the Irish Film Festival London (IFFL) is still paramount to ensure that the quality is never compromised. Kelly O’Connor is the director of IFFL and is excited for the St Patrick’s Day Festival plans. “What’s great about St Patrick’s Day is that it’s really appealing and more family friendly, so everyone can come along,” she explained. “There are lots of different things for everyone to do, so it’s a great opportunity for us to show some of the film productions emerging from Ireland.” The St Patrick’s Day spectacle from the IFFL is a collaboration from Irish organisations right across the industry. As well as the IFFL, the Irish Film Institute and the Irish Film Board have lent a hand in putting the day’s events together. The past 12 months have been particularly successful for the industry in Ireland and the programme on March 15 will have a variety of fantastic films on display. The feature film of the day this year will be The Legend of Longwood – a family drama focusing on a young girl who moves from New York to Ireland and sets out to protect her new home from a mysterious Black Knight who haunts the village.

IFFL will also screen one of the most critically acclaimed Irish productions of last year – which narrowly missed out on an Oscar. Boogaloo and Graham, a Belfast short film was up for Best Live Action Short in February – having already nabbed the 2015 BAFTA in the same category. This Michael Lennox-directed film tells the story of Jamesy and Malachy. The pair find themselves over the moon when their soft-hearted dad presents them with two baby chicks to care for, but the two boys are in for a shock when their parents announce that big changes are coming to the family. “The programme focuses on the very best

“

What’s great about St Patrick’s Day is that it’s really appealing and more family friendly, so everyone can come along. There are lots of different things for everyone to do, so it’s a great opportunity for us to show some of the film productions emerging from Ireland Kelly O’Connor

The Legend of Longwood

of recent Irish film both features and shorts,” Kelly O’Connor said. The St Patrick’s Day Film Festival will take place throughout the afternoon at The Prince Charles Cinema near Leicester Square from 12.30pm to 5.30pm, with Irish films being aired throughout the day. Best of all – it is totally free to go along and see some of Ireland’s best productions from the past year! FILM FAN: Kelly O’Connor, Director, IFFL

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

A documentary about interns, the Irish economy, and the benefits of the JobBridge scheme. Cutting Grass It’s a hot summer and as young inner-city boy Donal tries his hand at cutting lawns for pocket money, his luck starts to change when he meets a mysterious stranger. The Daisy Chain A woman looks back at her childhood and the games she used to play. Voiced by Fiona Shaw. Somewhere Down the Line – Best Animated Short Award winner, ClermontFerrand International Short Film Festival 2015 A man’s life, loves and losses are shown through the exchanges he has with the passengers in his car.

IRISH FILM FESTIVAL LONDON 12.30 - 1.30pm Anywhere But Here A short film about falling in love. 4 Bhanrion – Short Narrative Film award winner, Moondance International Film Festival 2013 Four elderly Irish sisters play a nasty game of poker to decide who will take care of their ailing and irritable mother in this hilarious dark comedy. The Tree A weary man’s struggle through an arid world desperate for food. Home A film about how our lives are shaped by the homes in which we grow up.

2.30 - 3.30pm

1.30 - 2.30pm Boogaloo and Graham – Best Short Film, BAFTA 2015 A short film about the lives of two young boys in 1970s Belfast. Two Sugars: Intern Ireland

TALENT: Fiona Shaw

Sophie at the Races – Official selection, Tampere Short Film Festival 2015 Nine-year-old Sophie and her wayward mother Hariette journey to the race to meet Sophie’s dad for the first time but things quickly fall apart as

Sophie realises that everything isn’t as it seems. Tea with the Dead – Official selection, Raindance Film Festival 2014 This animation drama follows Frank, a gentle unassuming embalmer in a small town in Connemara. Rockmount – Audience Award winner, Kerry Film Festival 2014 A film about an 11-year-old Roy Keane who will stop at nothing to get on the starting 11 of his football club. An Ode to Love – Best Irish Animated Short award winner, Foyle Film Festival 2014 A lonely man on a desert island explores the highs and lows of romantic love when a mysterious companion is washed ashore. 3.30 - 5.15pm The Legend of Longwood – Official selection, Giffoni Film Festival 2014 When 12-year-old Mickey Miller moves from New York to Ireland, she soon discovers a link between herself and the 300-year-old legend of the mysterious Black Knight, who regularly haunts the sleepy Irish village.

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

To book a free walk contact Tony McDonnell on 07850 184790

AWA R D S

Walk the walk This March why not go the extra mile and enjoy a special walk in celebration of Ireland’s patron saint led by Blue Badge guide Tony McDonnell. There are two great heritage tours to chose from…

Friday 23rd October 2015 The London Hilton on Park Lane

For further information or to book your table contact Sarah Murphy on sarah.murphy@irishpost.co.uk or 020 8900 4159

they have left their mark on this most diverse area of the metropolis.

HERITAGE TOUR 2 Emerald City March 15 & 17 2.30-4.30pm HERITAGE Start: Steps of St TOUR 1 Paul’s Cathedral ‘Where The Finish: Royal String Broke’ Opera House (Irish Camden Covent Garden Town walking Duration: 2 tour) hours Led by a London March 15 & 17 Blue Badge 10.30am-noon Tourist Guide this Start: Camden is an exploration Town Tube into the heart of Station (Kentish Irish London. A Town Road Exit) walk along Fleet Finish: Chalk Street into the Farm Tube WHICH WAY: Ditch the map and Temple and Station go on a guided walking tour of finishing in Duration: 1.5 Covent Garden London instead hours Explore the will bring you on ‘Capital of Irish London’ where for an amazing journey to learn about 200 years the Irish have played a the great names of Ireland and their central part in this area of London. lives in London. Discover the history This unique walk takes in landmarks of Shaw, Wilde, Parnell, Yeats, Wolfe like Arlington House and Dingwalls Tone and many more. This is Irish dance hall, telling the story of a history where it happened — on the vibrant Irish community and how streets of London.

Meet Blue Badge tour guide Tony McDonnell

www.theirishpostawards.com

“I’m a Londoner by birth, but have lived in other parts of Britain, including Scotland and the North of Ireland. In addition, I spent a year as a senior in a high school in Minnesota where the main element of my degree was American studies. I’m interested a broad spectrum of life in the capital from the arts, history, politics, current affairs, sport and rock ‘n’ roll. I’m currently researching Irish connections in London, which is a fascinating and under-appreciated component of the capital’s make-up.”

M AY O R ’ S E V E N T S 2 0 1 5 APRiL S AT 11

VA i S A k h i

S AT 2 5

FEAST OF ST GEORGE

Celebrating Sikh identity and culture City Hall and The Scoop, More London A national celebration of all things English Trafalgar Square

j u LY S AT 2 5

SuN 26 TBC

E i D F E S T i VA L

Marking the end of Ramadan Trafalgar Square

L i B E R T Y F E S T i VA L

Showcasing Deaf and disability arts as part of National Paralympic Day Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

O C TO B E R S AT 1 0

AFRiCA ON ThE SquARE

A taste of African arts and culture Trafalgar Square

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D i WA L i

Presenting the festival of lights Trafalgar Square

Find out more about the Mayor’s free events at london.gov.uk/events @LDN_gov

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

The world’s going green S GLASGOW

NEW ZEALAND

NEW YORK

PISA

NIAGRA

ome of Britain’s most iconic buildings and landmarks will take on a green glow this March to help celebrate St Patrick’s Day 2015 in style – with London’s Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square leading the charge. For the first time the 170-ft tall monument will ‘Go Green’ at 6pm on parade day, March 15, as the fun of the London St Patrick’s Day Festival draws to a close. It will be followed by greenings across the capital and the world – as the Irish all over the globe enjoy a host of events marking Ireland’s national day. While the world famous London Eye will once again go green for the occasion, so too will the Selfridges department store in Oxford Street and the world renowned Abbey Road Studios in the London borough of Camden. The theme will continue across Europe this year – where the greening tradition will find its place in Italy, where the Colosseum in Rome will turn green for the very first time. In France the SacréCœur Basilica in the fabled district of Montmartre in Paris will also make its debut in the worldwide greening GREEN FOR A DAY: Selfridges stakes – also joining the trend for the very first time in 2015. Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan commended the work of the Irish Embassies across the world and their partners at Tourism Ireland in organising the greenings of buildings and monuments around the globe ahead of St Patrick’s Day. “I am delighted that the Colosseum in Rome is to be greened for the first time, on the initiative of our Embassy in Rome, and that the Embassy in Paris has secured the agreement of the Mayor of Paris to the first-time greening of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in the district of Montmartre overlooking the city of Paris,” he said. “The greening of iconic sites is symbolic of the great friendship that exists between Ireland and so many countries around the world. It presents us with an invaluable opportunity to deepen existing friendships, strengthen awareness of Ireland and our rich heritage, and forge new ties,” he added. Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “This is the sixth year of Tourism Ireland’s Global Greening initiative and each year I am delighted to see even more well-known attractions and landmark sites wishing to get involved and join our St Patrick’s celebrations.” Fiona Audley

What’s going green across Britain? ■ LONDON EYE ■ NELSON’S COLUMN, LONDON ■ TOWN HALL CLOCK, MANCHESTER ■ ‘ARMADILLO’ (SECC), GLASGOW ■ THE SSE HYDRO, GLASGOW

Welcome to the 2015 St Patricks Day Parade London, sponsored by O2. Head to our stand to get your free sim and enter the 1p lucky dip to win some great prizes.

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Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day Mayo Association London Mayo Golf Society London Cáirde Mhaigheo London www.mayoassociationlondon.com

Council of Irish County Associations (C.I.C.A) London www.cicalondon.org Serving the Irish Community for over 60 years Monthly Council Meetings every 3rd Tuesday at the London Irish Centre, Camden New members are always welcome. Follow on Facebook “CICA London” WISHING ALL OUR MEMBERS, FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS A VERY HAPPY ST PATRICK’S DAY. “Shona La Fheile Padraig”

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Official media partner for the London St Patrick’s Festival

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

TOP HOST: RTÉ’s Ryan Tubridy

NCE London’s St Patrick’s Festival comes to a close, you can still keep the party going from the comfort of your own home with the new RTÉ Player International app.

A little piece of home

Try these top TV picks...

There’s a great new way for you to reconnect with Ireland this St. Patrick’s Day. You can follow the festivities as they roll through the heart of Dublin, watch great documentaries about Ireland’s past or laugh along with some top comedians via RTÉ’s newly-launched worldwide online television service, RTÉ Player International. With over 500 hours of Irish television, refreshed daily, there’s never been a better way to stay up to date with news, events and the craic. Available as an iPhone and iPad app, you can enjoy hundreds of hours of great content and discover some of Ireland’s most popular shows, including: The Late Late Show, Six One News, Primetime, Republic of Telly and much more. With so much free and paid-for content, covering everything from current affairs to comedy, documentaries to drama,and Irish language to children’s shows, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy. Available to download free from the Apple Store, users can access 100 hours of free content with the full content of 500 hours on offer free of advertising for a monthly subscription of only £6.99.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE, IRELAND Watch the parade as it meanders through the streets of Dublin. Featuring Ireland’s leading pageant companies, the 2015 Festival Parade theme ‘Celebrate Now’ will be brought to life. NAKED CAMERA This popular hidden-camera comedy series unleashes larger than life characters on the unsuspecting Irish public. Comedians PJ Gallagher, Patrick McDonnell and Maeve Higgins star.

HARDY BUCKS Mockumentary following a group of four slackers in the West of Ireland as they try to escape the drudgery of everyday life in Castletown. STORYLAND Watch five brand new original dramas, commissioned by RTÉ and the Irish Film Board for the new season of Storyland, a commissioning platform to identify new and emerging creative talent in Ireland.

THE SECRETS OF THE IRISH LANDSCAPE For this major three-part series Derek Mooney goes on an epic journey around Ireland and Europe, looking back over 20,000 years to unravel the enigma of Ireland’s eco system. DAN AND BECS Dan & Becs is a fresh new comedy that intercuts the video diaries of the two main characters as they discuss their tumultuous relationships, blossoming careers, and the many perils of living life on Dublin’s Southside. APP HAPPY: Storyland is available on iPhone and iPad

Celebrate LONDON St Patrick’s Day 2015

Grand Marshal

Being of the St Patrick’s Day Parade in the greatest city in the world, I’m very proud of that. It’s fantastic to see how far we’ve moved on – THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE BRITISH AND THE IRISH HAS NEVER BEEN BETTER.

best St Patrick’s Days

I’ve had was One of the when I was a Grand Marshal in Toronto, Canada, in the early 1990s. I was wearing a lime green felt jacket, it was an incredible day. I sat in the back of a 1955 Cadillac and they drove me around, IT WAS MARVELLOUS.

biggest career achievement

My to date has to be WINNING THE WORLD TITLE, and helping to create a good atmosphere between the warring factions in troubled Northern Ireland back in the 1980s when things were very hostile.

motivation

My comes from wanting the kids training in our organisation to maximise their potential, there’s no greater gratification than to see that happen. I LOVE WHAT I DO, I’M NOT WORKING.

biggest challenge

The I’ve faced in my career is to be the best at what we do. TO GIVE KIDS THE CHANCE TO BE STARS.

heroes

When it comes to , my father was someone I looked up to and admired. Funny, kind and talented, he was a great man. In boxing, it’s Roberto Duran, a Panamanian boxer who was one of the greatest fighters I ever set eyes on. Also, Sugar Ray Robinson and Sugar Ray Leonard, who was probably the greatest all-rounder of my lifetime. And, of course, MUHAMMAD ALI, who was an inspirational character.

favourite place in Ireland is Newcastle, Co. Down and

My the MOURNE MOUNTAINS.

best thing about where I live

On parade with...

BARRY McGUIGAN Grand Marshal, London St Patrick’s Day Festival Parade 2015

The , in southeast Kent, is ITS BEAUTY. It’s a fabulous part of the world. The worst thing is that to get into London we have the A2, which is not wide enough to take the amount of traffic, and the dreaded Blackwall Tunnel.

thing that makes me angry

is people The telling lies and PEOPLE WHO ARE DISHONOURABLE. I’m also getting more annoyed now than I used to, I think it’s something to do with age.

best piece of advice

I was ever given was from The my headmaster at primary school who said to me: “You can do things right, you can do things wrong, ALWAYS DO IT TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY.”

change one thing

If I could in my life it would be to HAVE MY BROTHER DERMOT BACK. He committed suicide in 1994, I’d like to have him back with me. He was my right hand man, my trainer.

best lesson

life has taught me is TO BE HONEST, not The just to others but to yourself.

trait that others criticise

When it comes to a me for, I suppose it’s what the famous Reg Gutteridge, who was a great commentator for ITV, said: “MCGUIGAN WOULD NEVER USE FIVE WORDS WHERE 25 WOULD DO!”

career hadn’t been in boxing

If my I’d have been a SINGER, I’ve got a pretty good voice. My father Pat was a professional musician, he sang in the Eurovision Song Contest for Ireland in 1968.

guilty pleasures

. I’ve got Sugar in my tea and coffee are a SWEET TOOTH, the duvet around the abs which did not exist before is getting marginally thicker.

The Mourne Mountains The popularity of former World Featherweight Champion Barry McGuigan has transcended the sport of boxing and his fights helped unite people across sectarian and religious divides during a troubled time in Ireland’s political history. A Catholic, Barry married his Protestant childhood sweetheart, Sandra Mealiff in 1981. An Irishman, he fought for the British Title, his boxing shorts the colours of the United Nation’s Flag of Peace and rather than an anthem his father sang ‘Danny Boy’ on many emotionally charged occasions before a fight. For more than 20 years now this boxing great has been commentating and writing on the sport he loves and has developed into one of its leading figures. McGuigan, now CEO of Cyclone Promotions, was voted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 2000 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2005. At the age of 17 he took the gold medal at the 1978 Commonwealth Games and as a professional went on to win the British, European and World Titles. These days Barry’s focus is on building World Champion boxers with Carl ‘the Jackal’ Frampton and exciting young prospect Conrad Cummings among those in his stable. Words: Nemesha Balasundaram

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