I've been out twice with the Brandon Ramblers on St. Stephen's Day and had a fantastic time both days.

The day begins with a gathering mid-morning in Norah Murphy's Bar in Brandon and a welcome pint or two of Guinness. This is followed by dressing up in wild costumes - many props provided by the house and loading everyone up into a van to tour the area. Stopping near a group of houses each will be invaded in turn - you leave your door unlocked at your peril. A crowd of around a dozen mad swirling characters will swarm into your home led by an accordion player, dancing and singing until you give them a fiver or so to go away. A slug of whiskey is also appreciated.

This assault goes on until it is felt that the bars might have enough people in them to be worth raiding. Our other local village Cloghane is attacked first with a music session and collection in each bar. We might at this time meet a far bigger Wran from Dingle or Castegregory who will be treated as a challenge to make even more noise.

Eventually we make our way back to Brandon to do all three pubs ending up with a late night session in Murphy's joined by stragglers from the other Wrans. It's a wild way to see Christmas out. It also makes quite a contribution to local good causes such as the Fenit Lifeboat or Kerry Mountain Rescue.

Smaller Wrans of youngters are everywhere all day.

A brilliant day all round.