Enniscorthy’s Norman castle was built in the 12th century by Philip de Prendergast and it was the perfect venue to launch forthcoming events marking the 850th anniversary of the first Norman landing at Bannow Bay on the south Wexford coast.

In her address this evening, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan said the occasion was in line with the Failte Ireland branding of the region as Ireland’s Ancient East and incorporated the launch of a small brochure detailing the Enniscorthy Heritage Trail and a bookmark to promote Normans 850.

“The Normans left a strong legacy in this county and this can be seen, not only by the castles that were built throughout the county, but by the many family surnames, such as Stafford, Esmonde, Devereux, Roche, Pettit, Bourke and Hayden,” said Cllr Codd-Nolan, who added; “Enniscorthy Municipal District has commissioned marketing and promotional tools under the Norman theme such as flags and banners to build on the legacy of the Norman theme and to increase our tourism visitors to our beautiful town with its medieval streets and to enrich our sense of place and our identity as a people.”

She added that Enniscorthy has 1500 years of history and outlined a few highlights from the tourism brochure; the Pugin designed St. Aidan’s Cathedral, the beautiful stained glass window features at St. Mary’s Church, the traditional shopfronts, the old courthouse and the stone-built William Barker Bridge over the pleasant Slaney.

Liz Hore, District Manager, outlined the function of the small Enniscorthy Heritage Trail publication. “It is amazing that 19 interesting features of Enniscorthy’s rich history and heritage can be reached within walking distance from the town centre,” she stated.

Catherine Gaul gave a potted history of the Norman invasion prior to their arrival at Bannow Bay in 1169. There was also Norman food and beverage, music on the harp, and the period costumed influence of Norman knights courtesy of the Enniscorthy Re-enactment Group, many of whom earlier in the evening had attended the traditional Patron at Knockbrandon, near Monaseed, in North Wexford.

The distinguished attendance included Deputy James Browne, Cllrs Jackser Owens and Aidan Browne, Rev. James Hamill, editor of ‘The Past’ historical publication, Rev. Billy Swan, St. Aidan’s Parish, Enniscorthy, and the staff of Enniscorthy Castle.

Liz Hore, District Manager, welcomed everybody to the rooftop event and acted as master of ceremonies.