Irish Guards led by Irish Wolfhound mascot in St Patrick’s Day parade in Hampshire

Sun, 17 Mar, 2024 - 17:06

Ellie Ng, PA

The Irish Guards have marched at Mons Barracks in Hampshire, England in a St Patrick’s Day parade led by their mascot – a three-year-old Irish Wolfhound, Seamus.

On Sunday, 250 Irish Guardsmen gathered at the barracks in Aldershot, Hampshire, as crowds congregated for parades in Ireland and around the world to mark the occasion.

Irish Wolfhound jumping up on handler — Seamus stood nose-to-nose with his handler, Drummer Ashley Dean (Yui Mok/PA)

It was the first time in nearly a year that a full contingent of Irish Guardsmen came together for a parade, with the last occasion being the coronation of Britain's King Charles III in May 2023, according to the British Army.

Commanding Officer James Aldridge said: “St Patrick’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the friendships that are so fundamental to our regimental ethos and identity.

Seamus is rewarded for his efforts leading the parade with a treat (Yui Mok/PA)

“With our busy and diverse operational schedules, it is the most prominent occasion for the regimental family to come together, and we are really looking forward to welcoming Micks of all ranks, from across the Army, past and present, and their families.

“We will raise a glass to those unable to attend this year.”

St Patrick’s Day Parade Birmingham — Crowds at the St Patrick’s Day parade in Birmingham (Jacob King/PA)

In London, more than 50,000 people were expected to join the annual procession of Irish marching bands, dance troupes and pageantry through the city.

The parade started in Hyde Park Corner at midday, with a route through Piccadilly, St James’s Street, Pall Mall, Cockspur Street and Whitehall, ending with live performances at Trafalgar Square.