Hundreds of walkers hit the roads, greenways and hills of Mayo this morning for Day one of the 2023 Castlebar Four Day International Walking Festival.

The 56th annual event got underway yesterday evening with a colourful opening parade through the streets of the county town.

Up to 200 visiting walkers took part in the parade which was be led by a colour party from the Reserve Defence Forces and the Castlebar Concert Band.

Walkers from around the world are in Castlebar for the 2023 event. 

This morning they are taking off on Day one of four, on either a 10k, 20k or ramble (hill hike) from the Ivy Tower Hotel on New Antrim Street, the headquarters of the festival.

Newly appointed festival director, Rowena Gillespie is appealing to motorists to take due caution and to be particularly aware of walkers between now and Sunday. She says many of the walks this years are primarily along greenways and “off road”, being mindful of the safety of all.