BLUSTERY weather failed to dampen spirits during the colourful and spectacular St Patrick's Day Parade in Huddersfield.
Spectators wore hats and waved Irish flags to cheer on the procession as it wound its way through the town centre yesterday.
Clusters of people congregated in St George's Square, Market Place and under the railway viaduct at the bottom of Fitzwilliam Street.
The event featured 10 floats, hosts of children from various youth organisations and two bands from Ireland.
Parade secretary John McLoughlin said: "Considering the weather, it was nice to see so many young people there."
He added: "We were concerned about the weather at 11am, when we were having heavy showers and gales were forecast. But about a quarter of the way round the course it brightened up."
Mr McLoughlin also said he was glad to see so many Brownie Guides and other organisations taking part.
"We all make our living in Huddersfield and we are happy to bring everybody in." he said.
"The bands from Ireland were surprised at the amount of community support the event received."
The Newcastle West and District Pipe Band, from County Limerick - voted champions of all Ireland three times - led the procession.
Pupils from St Patrick's RC Primary School displayed a model of Oscar Wilde's Selfish Giant and the 23rd Slaithwaite Brownies and Guides made their debut in the procession, carrying the flags of the Irish counties.
A routine performed to modern Irish and universal hits was given by the Silver Stars Majorettes and the English Martyrs Church Brownies sang for the crowd.
Youngsters from the Frances Cassidy School of Irish Dancing entertained and the Bofield Ceili Band, who performed in the 2002 St Patrick's Day Parade in New York, brought up the rear of the procession.
Jugglers, balloon sculptors and clowns performed in the street. A disco was also held at the Irish Centre, Fitzwilliam Street. St Patrick's Day is on Wednesday.
