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.

By Grainne McLoughlin

Shane MacGowan has fallen out of favour with his enraged band The Pogues after he shirked rehearsals and instead took an impromptu holiday to Morocco.

The Irishman only reappeared just in time to record a new version of the perennial Christmas favourite Fairytale In New York with singer Katie Melua replacing the late Kirsty MacColl.

The original line up for The Pogues has reformed for the third time to play a number of December shows. They’re set to appear in Newcastle Arena, Manchester Arena and Birmingham NIA on December 16, 17 and 18 respectively and will play two Christmas shows at London’s Brixton Academy on December 20 and 21.