St Patrick's celebrations in Westminster

St Patrick's celebrations began early in London with the annual parade on Sunday. Thousands lined the pavements to watch Irish dancing groups and bands as they marched all the way from Horseguards, down Whitehall and Victoria Street to Mass at Westminster Cathedral, celebrated by Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor. It was standing room only during the service, attended by representatives of the Irish Counties Association - representing every part of Ireland. During his homily Cardinal Cormac spoke of the great legacy of St Patrick. At the end of Mass he said: "You must continue his work through prayer - spreading God's message through the way you live." The clergy processed out to the tune of When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. In the Piazza under the Jubilee Cross, an impromptu performance by traditional step dancers and musicians from West London Ceoltas, drew a large crowd. Hundreds of events are planned around the UK on St Patrick's day next Saturday - some will be mentioned in our listings pages later this week. If you have an event you'd like posted with ICN - just e-mail us the details.