Almost 2 million people turned out to watch the New York City St Patrick's day parade on 5th Avenue.

New York's Mayor Micheal Bloomberg and Taoiseach Enda Kenny marched in the parade, which was held a day early this year.

The parade was led by 750 members of the US military.

Once again this year, Gay and Lesbian groups were banned from displaying gay pride messages or banners in the parade.

The organisers said it would detract from honouring Irish heritage.

New York's Mayor Michael Bloomberg says today is a day when everybody can celebrate being Irish.