Tens of thousands to welcome home Cork's winning footballers

Tens of thousands of fans are set to turn out in Cork city this evening for the return of their victorious football team.

Conor Counihan's squad came from behind to snatch a one-point (0-16 to 0-15) win from Down in Croke Park yesterday.

It is the Rebels' first All Ireland final win since 1990, and they are set to celebrate in style tonight.

Cork City Lord Mayor Councillor Mick O'Connell said the city was expecting a massive turnout for "this marvellous family occasion".

A purpose-built stage will be erected and the proceedings will be relayed to giant screens on Parnell Place and the South Mall in the city centre.

A line-up of entertainment is in place in advance of the arrival of both teams. From 6.30pm onwards, there will be a festival atmosphere as rapper GMC and Red FM DJs prepare the crowd. Michelle Fitzgerald will then sing until the anticipated arrival of the teams at 7.30pm.

Cork’s own Billa O’ Connell will act as Master of Ceremonies and the evening will end with a rousing rendition of “The Banks“ from Seán Ó Sé.

Traffic restrictions will be in place from mid afternoon onwards.