Everyone eyes are smiling as the Irish celebrate saint’s day

The community has been staging its celebration annually for 11 years, each year starting with a colourful parade involving floats, church groups, musical, sporting, cultural and community organisations and their banners.

The parade wound through Leeds city centre to the accompaniment of bands and music, eventually arriving in Millennium Square in front of Leeds Civic Hall.

Celebrations in the square this year included live traditional Irish music and dancing, stalls, food and displays.

One of those taking part was Gerry McCafferty, 34, from Harehills.

He said: ‘‘It’s been great fun. I have been coming for several years now with some friends and it just seems to get better and better with each passing year.’’

Alex Jeffries, 21, from Hunslet added: ‘‘This is the first time I have been. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but it has been great fun and all in all a very enjoyable day out. The music was terrific and I enjoyed seeing the traditional dancing.’’

Mary Smith, 80, from Doncaster said: ‘‘I’m from Ireland and this event is a good opportunity to keep in touch with all the friends I made in Leeds many years ago.’’