Saint Patrick was known as the Apostle of Ireland. He was born in South-West Britain in about 389AD. At 16 years of age he was carried off by Irish pirates - whose leader was Niall of the Nine Hostages - and passed his captivity as a herdsman. He worked on Slemish Mountain, Co. Antrim. He escaped after six years to the northern coast of Gaul, but returned to Ireland after he was ordained a priest. Some time after 431 Patrick was appointed successor to Saint Palladius, first bishop of Ireland. His reported use of the shamrock as an illustration of the Trinity led to its being regarded as the Irish national symbol. His traditional feast day is March 17.