THE GRAND Marshal of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New Ross will be United Striders Athletic Club legend, Emiel ‘Mel’ Heynen.

Mr. Heynen has been involved with the club since it was founded in 1976 and to this day continues to train with the Striders.

A spokesperson for the Parade Committee commented: “He has given thousands of hours to the club over the past 41 years.”

Cllr. Anthony Connick, who is Chairperson of the committee, said: “It was an absolute pleasure for the organising committee to be able to ask Mel to help us celebrate on March 17. It is people like Mel who have helped to make New Ross such an interesting and vibrant town to live in. He has played a pivotal part in getting the facilities for the Striders in New Ross Town Park.”

Cllr. Connick also praised Mr. Heynen for his “endless supply of energy”.

“Without even realising it he has inspired so many around him to succeed in athletics,” he said.

This year’s parade will start at 2.30 p.m. in the Irishtown and all groups are asked to begin assembling from 1.30 p.m. onwards.

For more information contact Ollie Somers on 087-2571841 or email [email protected]