Thousands join St Patrick's Day party
More than 80,000 people donned their Irish colours and got into the party spirit as huge St Patrick's Day celebrations took place in Birmingham.
Digbeth and the Irish Quarter were awash with the gold and green of the Irish flag for the annual event – one of the biggest of its kind in the world.
The traditional St Patrick's Day parade made its way along Camp Hill and Digbeth High Street, as thousands enjoyed yesterday's sunshine to watch it unfold.
The event started later than planned after a crash on the M6, which caused delays into the city centre.
But once the two-hour parade got under way, the streets were soon alive with live music, stalls and events for children, while pubs across the city staged live music performances.
Irish dancers performed for the crowds, people donned distinctive green hats and performers dressed as giant four-leaf clovers and leprechauns.
Roads were closed as the parade snaked around the streets of the second city.
See more on the parade at our sister site Native Monster.
The parade began at midday and lasted until around 2pm, with celebrations continuing into the night.
Organisers on the St Patrick's Festival Committee, said it was a big success.
Anne Tighe, chair of the festival board of directors, said it was a great chance to celebrate the Irish culture and heritage.
Festivities have been held every year since 1996 and this year's theme was Irish myths and legends.
And this year, the city's new multi-million pound library was also lit up in green to celebrate Birmingham's large Irish connections. People travelled from across the country to celebrate the feast of the patron saint of Ireland, which falls today.
