Thousands of people have turned out in Kilkenny for the start of celebrations marking its designation as a city on this day 400 years ago.  We were delighted to be the chosen choir to lead the opening ceremony for this great event for our City.

The organisers of Kilkenny 400 are hoping that the nine-month long festival will bring a welcome economic boost to the popular tourist town.

On this day 400 years ago, King James I, the then King of Ireland and son of the infamous Mary Queen of Scots, granted Kilkenny a charter designating it a city.

A decision was taken a number of years ago by Kilkenny Borough Council to hold a celebration this year to mark the milestone.

The celebrations got under way with an open air performance by the Kilkenny Gospel Choir.