Almost 2,500 people at Slemish on Paddy’s Day

Despite a misty start, weather conditions were excellent for the event, and the views from the top of Slemish were a picture postcard.

The atmosphere was tremendous and the craic around Slemish had an international feel with a vast range of visitors originating from America, Italy, Poland, England, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland to name a few.

At around 11am visitors were treated to the spectacular sight of Bann Valley & Termoneeny Road Cycling Clubs ascending the final stages of Carnstroan Lane to arrive at the foot of Slemish as part of their St Patrick’s Day annual cycle run - a journey which began in Portglenone at 9.30am that morning.

Following on from previous years, Ballymena Borough Council provided catering and alternative parking arrangements – which included a park and ride service in operation between Slemish, the car parks at Buckna Presbyterian Church, Buckna Gospel Hall and the ecos centre, Ballymena. T

And the fun wasn’t just based at Slemish as, once again, an enjoyable programme of activities was available at the ecos centre throughout the day.

At ecos, visitors were treated to traditional music, Irish Stew in the ecos café, story telling and a range of children’s activities which included free face painting and bouncy castles.

Christine Butler, Tourism Officer and Event Organiser/ Controller was delighted with all aspects of the event and lends a great thanks to all who were involved in making the event so successful.

Christine said: “I am delighted at the success of this event which grows annually. We have a trained and dedicated team placed on the mountain each year to assist our St Patrick’s Day visitors if required.

“All staff work tirelessly to make this event flow as easily as possible, and I trust everyone who attended this year enjoyed the experience.

“My thanks to all who took part in the event – we look forward to St Patrick’s Day 2013 which will be the 10th anniversary of this event.”

Mrs Butler also wished to thank the generous support given through Ballymena Borough Council’s Good Relations Programme, the PSNI, Ballykeel Environmental Action Team (BEAT), Buckna Presbyterian Church and Buckna Gospel Hall.