The Royal British Legion in Portadown will host its annual St Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations. The event takes place in the town centre.

Participants form up at 1.30pm outside the Legion on Thomas Street. Alderman Stephen Moutray, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, will present sprigs of shamrock to veterans along with other dignitaries.

Rev Geoffrey Walmsley, rector of Milltown Church of Ireland and branch chaplain, will lead a short St Patrick’s service. The parade marshal will then explain the shamrock’s significance to Irish soldiers.

The parade starts at 2pm with the Legion accompanied by St Mark’s Silver Band. It proceeds via Market Street, Mandeville Street, West Street and High Street. The Lord Mayor takes the salute there before the group returns to Thomas Street.

Officials from the Royal British Legion and the Lord Mayor will address participants upon return. Veterans and members then receive a shot of rum and take part in celebrations with food and entertainment in the Legion function rooms.

All veterans, Legion members and visitors may join the parade and events.