The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

THE FIRST ever World Bodhrán Championships will take place in Milltown in Co. Kerry from June 2 to 5.

Bodhrán players from all over the globe are invited to enter the competitions and bid for the coveted title of World Bodhrán Champion. The weekend will include musical entertainment, workshops on the bodhrán, its making, history and playing as well as fun for all the family.

Other events planned include a bodhrán-playing marathon and a bid to build the biggest bodhrán in the world. World Bodhran Championship chairman Dan Cronin said: “The local Comhaltas branch has a great reputation for staging traditional Irish music events and these Championships will be no different.”

Acts already confirmed for the event include Liam O'Maonlaí, Rónán Ó’ Snodaigh of Kila, Mel Mercier and Mícheál Ó’ Súilleabháin.

The two highlights of the event will be a live concert in the local church involving Liam O’Maonlai of Hothouse Flowers fame and Rónán Ó’ Snodaigh on Friday June 2 with an indoor concert in the marquee with Mel Mercier and Professor Mícheál Ó’ Súilleabháin on Saturday June 3.

The bodhrán is the heartbeat of Irish music — an ancient frame-drum traditionally made with a wooden body and a goatskin head and played with a double-headed stick called a cipín, tipper or beater.

Although it has existed for centuries it was only introduced into traditional music performance in the 1960s.

For more information about the World Bodhrán Championships log on to bodhranchampionship@eircom.net.

Alternatively contact the WBC office at 00353 87 6850542.