Attendance figures for day 1 of the National Ploughing Championships confirmed

DESPITE the bad weather, more than 66,000 people attended the first day of the National Ploughing Championships which are taking place in County Laois. 

From all of the latest machinery and cutting edge innovations to fashion, quality livestock, crafts and many well-known faces the crowd of 66,250 visitors revelled in all of the action in Ratheniska.

There were lengthy traffic delays on approach routes early on Tuesday morning and for those who did travel to the 700-acre site, wellies and umbrellas were a necessity.

Speaking following the conclusion of day 1, Anna May McHugh, NPA Managing Director (pictured below with Minister Simon Coveney), said it was a difficult day for the team behind the event. “With the wet weather it was a challenging day for organisers but I would like to take this opportunity to thank patrons for their patience and support it was much appreciated.  With much better weather due for tomorrow we eagerly anticipate all of that Day 2 has to offer.”

Several new exhibitors joined all of the firm favourite attractions this year such as fashion shows, meggers, sheep shearing, hunt derby, fun fair, food fayre, craft demonstrations, pony games, live music and dancing, vintage ploughing, threshing, loy digging, motor show and baking competitions.

There were also a host celebrities and well-known faces to be seen almost everywhere.