Event ploughs ahead

The recent unexpected spell of Indian summer weather has set the scene for the 82th National Ploughing Championships which President Michael D Higgins will open at Ratheniska, Co Laois, today.

Days of dry and warm weather facilitated the 1,400 exhibitors in setting their stands on firm ground and ensured that service vehicles and cars could move about without difficulty.

Spirits have also been raised with Met Éireann predicting mostly fine weather for the next three days in Ratheniska where ground conditions are reported to be good.