More than 1,500 people have climbed a mountain in Co Antrim – which has a close association with St Patrick – to mark the national holiday.
Slemish Mountain near Ballymena is reputed to be where St Patrick herded sheep for six years after being snatched from Britain by a party of Irish raiders.
It is said to be where he received a calling to religious life that led to his return in later years to bring Christianity to Ireland.
Mid and East Antrim Council run an event at the mountain every year to cater for the large crowds who congregate on its slopes.
Council spokesperson Paul…