Ballina's murals...Hi Jack bye Biden

 

When in Ballina I was impressed by the number and quality of murals I spotted around the town, one big surprise was a large mural of Jack Charlton I spotted out of the window of the Ballina Manor Hotel while having lunch. I then remembered that he is probably now an adopted son after his very successful 10 year spell as manager of the Republic of Ireland national side.

It is amazing what can be done on the side of a building!

One of the town's most famous murals has now however has been painted over, probably why I couldn't find it! Ex-President Biden, due to his ancestral connection to the town had been honoured with a mural on a wall in Market Square in the town but when his views on Palestine where aired a petition was raised to have it removed!

St.Patrick's day parade in Ballina led by astronaut!

When we were in Ballina in County Mayo it coincided with St. Patrick's Day and the town had their annual parade through its streets. After the local dignitaries got settled in the parade started with commentary and we were surprised to hear that leading the parade was someone who is destined to become Ireland's first astronaut! Norah Patten is a native of the town and has worked hard to put herself in a position to travel to space on a future research spaceflight with Virgin Galactic.   

The theme for this year's parade was, not surprisingly 'Shoot for the stars' which was confirmed on the back of a skip!

Some of the floats had an obvious connection, others less so!

Winners of best dressed went to the couple above.

2nd prize!