Current Culture and Sport
The Irish in Coatbridge have been a significant influence on the town's social, political and cultural life. In recent years there has been increased interest in the Irish cultural heritage of the town. Evidence of this can be seen in the St. Patrick's 10 day long festival (sponsored by the Irish government) and visits from members of the Irish government such as president Mary McAleese. On her last visit Mary McAleese described Coatbridge as the 'heart of Ireland in Scotland'. Currently there are four Irish dance schools in the area, regular Irish classes, a Gaelic football team (Sands MacSwiney, formed 1986) and an Irish Genealogy Project. St Patrick's Chapel is situated on the main street of Coatbridge and forms a hub of Irish activity in town hosting regular Irish quiz nights and shows of Irish themed films.
In 2006, Coatbridge (along with Port Glasgow and Clydebank) was voted 'the least Scottish town in Scotland' due to having the highest percentage of Irish names in the country. More than 28% of adults in Coatbridge had names with Irish origins incidentally, Barra, the most Scottish place in Scotland is overwhelmingly Catholic compared to Coatbridge's slight majority. In 2008 Coatbridge was subject of an hour-long RTE documentary regarding the Irish culture of the town.
Perhaps the most obvious link with between Coatbridge and Ireland are the numerous Celtic F.C. supporters' clubs operating in the area. Phil Coles Celtic supporters club holds a legendary place in the folklore of Coatbridge Celtic supporters. Coatbridge is noted as a particular hotbed of Celtic Support. A number of locals have also played professionally for the club including Gerry Creaney, Peter Grant, Peter McNamee and European cup medal winner, John 'Yogi' Hughes.
Read more about this topic: Coatbridge Irish
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