Shamrocks get the bum deal

WE might be fond of drowning the shamrock but we are not that keen about wearing it on St Patrick’s Day — even if it is free.

The humble sprig of shamrock, the emblem synonymous with St Patrick, has almost been completely replaced by plastic badges, hats, painted faces and garish green outfits.

One supermarket was giving bags of it away for free but found that only a few older people took one with their shopping.