Welcome to the Irish Centre

by Richard Belbin

Many of Burngreave’s Irish community marked this St Patrick’s Day by taking part in a number of activities that both remembered the past and looked to the future.

The Irish have been a part of Sheffield for almost 600 years, and have resided in what is now Burngreave for much of that time, the area was known as Little Ireland at one time. The first trading post in Sheffield was established by Irish travellers, and is marked today by the Celtic Cross next to the East House pub on Burngreave Road. Wreaths were laid both here, and at Crookes Cemetery to mark those who had built much of the Sheffield we know today. 

Later that day Richard Caborn MP, accompanied by the Lord Mayor and various other dignitaries, laid the foundation stone for the new Irish Heartland building, located just outside of Burngreave, opposite the end of Rutland Road. It is hoped that the new centre will become the focus of Irish life in Sheffield, celebrating the community’s culture and history, and to ensure a fair and accurate representation of Irish people throughout the city.

The day’s events were organised by the Sheffield Irish Forum, a strictly ‘non-sectarian’ organisation who have organised the last three Irish festivals in the city. 
If you want to get in touch, or to get involved with any of the Forums activities, they can be contacted on 2210481 

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