Mr John Hume, the SDLP leader and European election candidate, visited Downpatrick, Co Down, on Saturday.
He was greeted by smiles and handshakes, not to mention autograph-hunters, eager to add the Nobel Peace Prize winner's signature to their books.
In an area where the SDLP enjoys strong support, Mr Hume didn't really need to "hard-sell" his party's election manifesto.
However, as he strolled among the market stalls, the number one vote on 30th June was certainly top of his shopping list, although he did recommend the transfer of votes to pro-Belfast Agreement candidates.
"Our manifesto sets out 21 commitments for a new beginning of the European Union in the 21st century," said Mr Hume, who was accompanied by the SDLP Assembly member Mr Eddie McGrady.
He said an example of the influence the SDLP have had in Europe was reflected in their work with Mr Jacques Delors in the setting up of the peace and reconciliation programme. Through this, Northern Ireland had benefited by £400 million.
"Peace has always been foremost on our agenda in Europe, and there is obviously massive sympathy for all the victims of the Troubles," he said. "However, I believe that no monument to commemorate those victims could be as great as the will of the people to build a peaceful society."
On farming, Mr Hume said his party was "making every effort in the fight to have the export ban lifted from Northern Ireland beef".
He said he had highlighted the plight of those involved in agriculture, Northern Ireland's biggest industry, during discussions with the President of the European Commission, Mr Romano Prodi.
"As a result of our discussion," said Mr Hume, "the EU President is considering a special economic study of Northern Ireland, paying particular attention to the agricultural sector".