And yesterday at Halifax's St Patrick's Day Parade that certainly seemed to be true.

From the players of Warrington Pipe Band leading the march to the youngsters of the Mixenden Crusaders bringing up the rear in their bright blue uniforms, everyone seemed to have smiling Irish eyes.

"There's no doubt it's a great day for the community," said Irish Centre secretary Gordon Wilkinson.

"The Irish know how to throw a celebration and you can bet there will be a lot of people having a lot of fun today."

Crowds on the streets cheered the marchers as they walked by – many waving traditional Irish county flags or resplendent in green Irish football and rugby shirts.

Music which included everything from traditional jig to Pogues classics was played as the 100-strong parade circled Halifax taking in the town hall, Bull Green and Cow Green and ending where it started at the Irish Centre, West Vale.

The afternoon parade was followed by food, Guinness, jigging and more music at the centre carrying on late into the evening.

Jane Moore, whose six-year-old daughter Francesca performed a dance, said: "It's exciting to see the marchers go past, it gives a real sense of community."

Ms Moore, whose family comes from County Mayo but who now lives in Sowerby Bridge, added: "A march, a few drinks and a lot of dancing, it doesn't really get better than that."

The celebrations will continue today – being the traditional St Patrick's Day date – with a live band and dance at the centre.