AS the Foyle Maritime Festival draws to a close this weekend, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Alderman Hilary McClintock, is gearing up for an emotional farewell to what has been a spectacular week of events.
“I’m overwhelmed at how wonderful the Foyle Maritime festival has been and the thousands of visitors that have come to our city to experience what has been a phenomenal event.
“The diverse and packed programme has meant that we have had something to offer everyone – fun for families, quality performances for music lovers, culinary delights for foodies and water sports for the brave at heart.
“What a fabulous way to showcase our beautiful city at its absolute best!
“I’d like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved, Derry City and Strabane District Council and our sponsors who have supported us, worked tirelessly over recent months and pulled out all the stops to make this year’s festival the huge success it has been.
“Sadly all great things must come to an end and I’m inviting everyone to join us on Queen’s Quay on Sunday 17th July for the Parade of Sail and be part of the emotional farewell to the Clipper Race yachts, as they depart for their next official race start at Greencastle.
“ It’s going to be a memorable occasion for us all as the boats set off on the River Foyle one by one and I’m encouraging families and friends to come out in force to support the local team Derry on the final part of the Race.
“It would be great to give them an extra special send off, so it would be fabulous if spectators could wear the colour purple and really get behind the amazing legenderry crew.”
Jacqueline Whoriskey, Festival and Events Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council says the Parade of Sail promises to be an emotional farewell to the Clipper Race crews and an opportunity for the public to bid them farewell and good luck on the final stages of the race.
Urging people to come along and be part of the celebrations, she advised the public to line the Quay and to come along early to ensure a good vantage point, and as always to co-operate fully with stewards.
The Parade of Sail takes place on Sunday 17th July at 1 pm from Queen’s Quay and is free to the public.
Members of the public intending to come along are advised to be in place along the Quay from 12 noon to ensure a good viewing point.
The Foyle Maritime Festival is supported by Tourism Northern Ireland, Foyle Port, Loughs Agency, Diageo, DuPont Kevlar and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.
For more information on the full Foyle Maritime Festival programme visit www.foylemaritimefestival.com.
Tags: