Over 10000 expected to attend sundays athlone agri show

In excess of 10,000 people could flock to Athlone Agri-Show on Sunday next, if fine weather materialises, organisers hope.
The show, now in its 13th year, has rapidly grown into one of the biggest of its kind in the country.
This year, chairman Michael Flanagan said it’s all systems go for another bumper show, despite the counter attraction of the Westmeath V Meath Leinster Football Championship semi-final on the same day.
Speaking to the Westmeath Independent, Mr Flanagan said the showgrounds at Gaffey’s farm in Moydrum was in tip top condition. “The grounds never looked better,” he said, complimenting the Gaffey family.
One of the key elements of this year’s show is a Farm Relief Service farm safety exhibition, which will include hourly demonstrations, covering issues such as the use of farm machinery and quad bikes and the safe handling livestock.
Mr Flanagan said that with figures last year showing that 30 people died in agricultural activities, it was “an ideal and opportune time” to introduce the farm safety element to the show.
In general, entry levels in agricultural shows around the country have been down this year, due, according to Mr Flanagan, to the bad weather experienced in May.
However, there has been a last minute rush of entries in the cattle section in Athlone and the equestrian section is on a par, if not ahead, of last year.
Athlone Agri-Show prides itself in providing categories and attractions for all the families. Aside from the traditional elements of an agricultural show, including the cattle, sheep and equestrian classes, Athlone hosts a major dog show, an impressive Made in the Midlands food village and craft fair, a plethora of trade stands, and a huge variety of entertainment for children.
In the food village, various food demonstrations, and tastings will be held and those in attendance at the show will the opportunity to buy the very best of produce from across the midlands.
Admission for adults is €10. Children is free and there is ample free car parking available.
This year, the showgrounds will be open at 7am for exhibitors and 10am for the general public.