THE team at the Irish Network Stevenage (INS) opted for alternative St Patrick’s celebrations last week – bringing the sentiments of the day to their members at home.
“Normally on St Patrick’s Day we have a lovely lunch, with music and dancing, we present the Mayor of Stevenage with shamrock and just have a great afternoon celebrating” said INS Chair Luke Donovan.
“But this year we had to think differently so we could keep everyone safe”.
Sharon Taylor, Leader of the Council, Patsy Reilly, Irish Network Stevenage volunteer, Luke Donovan, Chair of Irish Network Stevenage, Peggy Lyons, Vice Chair of Irish Network Stevenage, Fr Michael Doherty and the Mayor and Mayoress of StevenageInstead of their usual lunch – which regularly draws more than 200 members - INS arranged for a St Patrick’s Day Mass to take place at St Hilda’s Church in Stevenage.
It was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Stevenage, and Sharon Taylor, the Leader of Stevenage Council.
Volunteers from the INS also delivered over 200 St Patrick’s Day gift bags, to help people commemorate the day, with help from Henry Holland-Hibbert, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire.
Doreen Clark, INS member, receiving her St Patrick's Day gift bag from Henry Holland-Hibbert, High Sheriff of HertfordshireMr Donovan said: “Time and time again I have been reminded of what fantastic support our volunteers provide and I thank them for everything they have been doing to help our members throughout this pandemic.
“Their weekly calls have been a lifeline for many, and I know that we would not be the charity we are today if we did not have such amazing volunteers.”
He added: “Our plans are in place for St Patrick's Day 2022, and it will be one to remember, for all the right reasons.”
