For all of you who survived Paddy’s Day 2007 in Ireland a hearty congratulations. Wasn’t that something? Wow! I have never seen weather like that before in March. Snow, hail, sleet, 80mph winds – it was crazy! No wonder the snakes left. I was close to leaving myself. Or I would have if I could have seen past my face. What am I talking about, most of the time I couldn’t even feel my face. But I’m pretty sure it was there because it still managed to drink my wallet dry.

If you were in Ireland for the first time three weeks ago please don’t get the wrong impression. Please. please don’t think that weather was anywhere near normal. It wasn’t. In fact just a week later the sun was shining and some brave young people were sporting t-shirts. The contrast couldn’t have been greater.

Still, I am happy to report the pipe bands of Achill did their duty regardless. They walked the length and breadth of the island in their kilts, bleating out marching tunes while drifts of snow accumulated in the crooks of their elbows and Atlantic waves crashed about their ears. Well done lads! You made us all proud.