By Michelle Crean

Rathmore locals are planning to 'Return to Freedom' this coming March with plans for a big, colourful St Patrick's Day parade to make up for the two years lost to the pandemic.

The 10th annual parade will take place in the village on Sunday, March 13 led by Grand Marshall, Diarmuid O'Keeffe, at 2pm.

This year’s theme is 'Return to Freedom' and it's set to feature local school children and groups and there'll be prizes for Best Overall Float, Frank Buckley Memorial Cup, Best Vintage Vehicle, Best Commercial Float, Best Organisation/Group, Best Window Display, Best Dressed Buggy/Pram, Best Agricultural Float, and Best Dressed Pet. All entries must be received by Friday, March 11.

"All floats are welcome," Michael O'Mahony, who is one of the organisers, told the Killarney Advertiser.

"There'll be street entertainment and children's face painting. It's going the last 10 years and we're delighted that it's going ahead again this year. 2019 was the last parade we had."

As well as the local groups involved he added that Millstreet Pipeband and Cullen Pipeband will be taking part.

He said i​​​​​​t's hoped that the Beaufort Biddies will also join them again.

"The Marian Players Rathmore have no show this year but are planning one for next year, and we hope that they'll put a group together."

For further information ring 087 6676817.

"Please let us know before March 13."