WARRINGTON'S annual celebration of Irish music and culture has received support from top politicians.

Prime Minister Tony Blair and Northern Ireland Secretary Mo Mowlam have sent their best wishes to the popular Fleadh.

Tony Blair said: "I have great pleasure in sending my warmest wishes to all participating in this year's Fleadh. Building on Warrington's relations with the North and South of Ireland, I have no doubt that, as in previous years, the Fleadh's diverse range of attractions will prove to be a tremendous success."

Mo Mowlam said: "I am delighted that the Warrington Fleadh continues to grow in popularity and esteem. Over the past five years it has become a landmark event in the calendar, helping to bring people together by building strong ties with the Irish community."

This year's Fleadh starts on March 14 with a service of worship at Warrington Methodist Mission. The following week sees a packed schedule of Irish dancing, Warrington Male Voice Choir performing with the Strabane Concert Brass and the turning of the first sod at the site of new International Peace Centre.

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