Scottish Catholic Observer

A 100-year-old statue of St Patrick was freshly renovated by a Glasgow primary in time for the saint’s feast day celebrations last week.

The saint’s statue has been a focal point of St Patrick’s Primary School in Anderston for a century, but in recent years it began to fall apart due to its age.

“It was getting to the point where it was unsafe to have it here,” said Louise Kerr, headteacher of the school.

“Bits of plaster were falling off and he had fingers missing.”

In order to fund the £1,210 refurbishment a second collection was held in St Patrick’s Church and locals donated generously, meaning the statue could be sent to a company that specialises in liturgical arts and statue renovations.

“We’re all absolutely delighted to have it back refurbished because we were all so used to it being here,” Mrs Kerr said.

“Everybody who comes to the school sees the statue, so we’re really glad to have it back all refurbished—it’s a huge part of the school and has been for so long.”

Staff and pupils had their fingers crossed in the hope that they could have the statue back ahead of St Patrick’s Day and their wish came true as St Patrick was able to watch over the school’s celebrations on March 15, two days ahead of the weekend feast day.

Fr Paul Gargaro, parish priest of St Patrick’s Church, celebrated Mass in the school and blessed the beautifully renewed statue.

Pupils, staff, parishioners and parents were invited along for the occasion and had the chance to take a look at the stunning gold and green colours shown on the statue.

Mrs Kerr said the Mass was ‘lovely.’

She added: “We’re so happy with it all. We couldn’t have done any of this without the generosity of everyone who donated. They were all really kind.”