Corking good time in emerald way

PETER DRURY/Waikato Times

STEPPING UP: Dancers entertain patrons outside Biddy Mulligans in Victoria St, Hamilton, this morning.

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Patrick "Paddy" Gantley was unmistakable at Hamilton pub Biddy Mulligans this morning.

Adorned with a bright green hat and with a belly that has seen more than the odd Guinness, the Galway-born 62-year-old was in his element.

"I've celebrated St Patrick's Day in Ireland, London, Sydney ... and now quite a few at Biddys," he said.

The Irishman was joined by many in the pub, and many more around the Waikato as they celebrated the life of St Patrick, and everything Irish from the Emerald Isle.

Biddy Mulligans started the day with breakfast, a band and Irish dancers in front of the pub.

Dancer Olivia Tobin was one of those whose performance attracted toots from passing motorists.

The 14-year-old, whose great-grandfather hailed from County Cork, said she was enjoying the spirit of the morning. "I like the performing and the friendship of the dancing."

New Irish bar Shenanigans, at the southern end of Victoria St, was to celebrate its first St Patrick's Day today with breakfast followed by dancing and other performances. And while Irish eyes were smiling brightly first thing, it's a good bet they'll be a bit more glazed over later on tonight.

Not Mr Gantley's though. "At 10 o'clock tonight, I'll be the best dancer in Hamilton," he boasted.

- © Fairfax NZ News