ONE great Birmingham tradition that is very much alive and kicking is the St Patrick's parade.
The annual event, which took place yesterday, nearly a week ahead of St Patrick's Day itself, attracted thousands of participants and on-lookers who enjoyed the spring sunshine, mild temperatures and spectacle.
It has established itself as one of the world's biggest St Patrick's parades. That is something of which we can rightly be proud.
Here is another example of how multi-cultural Birmingham has been enriched by the arrival of people who were once regarded as strangers.
Today the Irish and the descendants have integrated seamlessly.
Hats off - emerald green ones, of course - to the craic!