LIMERICK:IRELAND'S BIGGEST parade went off with a bang yesterday as rugby star Keith Earls led 3,600 marchers through the streets of his native Limerick. Up to 60,000 people turned out to cheer on colourful floats and bands, with the parade taking two hours to pass.
Nobody was as proud of the spectacle as 23-year-old Ireland try-scorer Earls, who led off the procession in an open-topped vintage car. “It’s a great honour for me and my family,” said the grand marshal from Moyross.
Young and old lined the streets to watch the city’s Defence Forces and emergency services march behind Limerick’s much-loved Boherbue Brass and Reed Band.
The 12th Infantry Battalion from Sarsfield Barracks led the military contingent, which thrilled spectators – especially youngsters – as four Mowag tanks passed by.
More than 100 groups took part in the parade which had the theme ‘I Love Limerick’. Organisations from all walks of life were represented, with entries from Christian, sporting, business, immigrant and community groups.