Country’s biggest one-day rural show gets layout revamp

The country’s biggest one-day rural show at Tullamore will have a new layout for its 2013 event at Butterfield Estate on Aug 11.

It also has a new chairman, Rodney Cox, a local farmer, who has been vice-chairman for the past three years and head of the inventions section.

“I am very proud and excited to take on this role Judging by previous years, I am confident that this year’s show will be another wonderful family day out attracting both country and city people,” he said.

The event, which features the AIB National Livestock Show, attracts around 60,000 people each year, has 600 trade stands and hosts the finals of numerous livestock and other championships.

This year’s new layout will involve the horse activities moving to a new area, which will include parking facilities.

Developments include a new road through the general trade area and the levelling of a large area.

The show executive said these improvements are being undertaken following feedback from visitors and exhibitors.

Meanwhile, the five-month showing season begins this coming weekend with Thomastown in Co Kilkenny holding a two-day show on Saturday and Sunday.

Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co Clare also hosts a one-day event on Sunday, while Leap Horse and Pony Show takes place in West Cork on Bank Holiday Monday.

A total of 131 shows affiliated to the Irish Shows Association will be held between now and the end of October.

* A map of the new layout will be available at www.tullamoreshow.com prior to the show.