Since the 2023 parade the organising committee sadly lost one of our long standing members. Tom Brennan died peacefully on 17th December 2023.
Tom's will be a familiar face to many who have attended the parade over the years. He was our flags marshall and made sure there was a fantastic display of flags every year. As a member of the committee it was his suggestion to purchase the flags that are now flown each year.
His commitment and enthusiasm along with his practical advice at meetings helped keep plans moving, and his sense of humour raised our spirits.
Tom was one of 12 children born to Mick and Katie Brennan on 8th March 1949 in Mayo, Crettyard, Co.Laois where he attended school. He had a varied working life from working with the circus and also as a qualified plasterer. In Leeds he was well known as the landlord of the Old Royal Oak in Kirkgate. He is survived by his four children.
This year the cup awarded to Best Float in the Parade will be renamed in his honour, the Tom Brennan Cup.
We send our deepest condolences to Tom’s family. He was a great man and a driving force to us all. May he rest in peace.
