NI MANAGER SET TO OPEN 2013 MILK CUP

Milk Cup chairman Victor Leonard says Coleraine’s colourful carnival to welcome the teams participating in the international youth tournament is a massive draw for people of all ages. The parade headed by special guest and Milk Cup old boy O’Neill, the Northern Ireland international team manager competed for Coleraine and District Youth League back in 1985, will leave the Town Hall in the Diamond in the centre of Coleraine at 7pm.

“This year we welcome 44 teams from all four continents including representatives from as far away as Russia, Japan, New Zealand, Chile, Mexico, Germany, France and Denmark,” said Victor.

“It is very much a tradition that supporters come from all over the Province and farther afield to cheer on the players and officials as they parade to the Showgrounds. If you are intending joining us, I would advise you secure your vantage spot on the route as early as possible.”

Also in the line up are bands from across Northern Ireland who provide a wide variety of music, special guests, referees plus organising committee members and volunteers. The parade, watched by thousands of well-wishers, makes its way along the main street, Church Street, into Kingsgate Street, then swings into Railway Road and passes the Leisure Centre before eventually turning into the Showgrounds, home of Coleraine FC.