Politicians come in for plenty criticism - some of it merited, some of it not. However, when they do hit on a good idea, credit is due and on this occasion the plaudits go to Lismore Town Mayor, Cllr Julie Landers who earlier this year proposed the staging of an event marking the town's 400th anniversary - more specifically the 400th anniversary of the granting of a charter by King James to the First Earl of Cork (who controlled a vast sway of land across much of Cork and Waterford including Lismore).

The earl may be long gone, but the town council (formerly town commissioners) he helped form lives on (for now) and by and large they continue to work for the advancement of their area.

The 400th anniversary celebrations kicked off in Lismore last Sunday but the main event(s) took place on Bank Holiday Monday. The sunny south east lived up to its name and a strong turn out of locals was supplemented by a very substantial amount of visitors who were taking in the sights.

The focal point of the celebrations was the town's magnificently maintained Millennium Park and for the duration of the afternoon it was transformed into a cultural and artistic centre catering for a multitude of singers, dancers, poets, artists and street performers. The end result was a top class programme of entertainment that kept the masses enthralled for several hours.

Edward Lynch, who can be relied upon to be present at any event of substance in Lismore, acted as MC for the event and was his ever-efficient self. Forsaking his veterinary garb the popular vet adopted the role of Elizabethan adventurer and 'potato man', Sir Walter Raleigh.

In between the entertainment, there was a parade through the main street and a history workshop hosted by Donald Brady. Other important facets of the celebrations included the presentation of commemorative medallions to past and present town councillors. Another equally significant part of proceedings was the official unveiling of a memorial seat dedicated to the memory of the late town clerk, Eric Flynn.

Organizers certainly packed a lot into the two days and they can feel well pleased with a commemoration that displayed the famed heritage town in a very favourable light.

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