Moscow could stage Europe's biggest St Patrick's parade

Europe's biggest St Patrick's Day parade could be held in Moscow this year because of the foot and mouth crisis.

Foot and mouth has led to massive parades here being cancelled or postponed.

But around 25,000 are expected to line Moscow streets for the annual parade, which may be Europe's largest gathering.

Only about 100 Irish citizens live in the city.

"There are a lot of similarities between the people," said Bill Maxwell, a chief sponsor of the parade.

"The Russians also know how to enjoy themselves."

Clowns, marching bands, 17 floats, a fleet of Volkswagen Beetles and a pack of Irish wolfhounds will wind through Moscow's streets.

The focus of Russia's homage to St Patrick will be the Novy Arbat centre - and adjoining Shamrock Bar, it is reported.

The Irish, British and US ambassadors will review the parade. Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov has agreed to shut down streets and is expected to attend.

"Of course the Irish, they go out and celebrate a little bit, have a few drinks. It's called drowning the shamrock," said organiser John Duffy, adding that "wetting the shamrock" is also acceptable.