CONTROVERSY raged at Fairyhouse last evening when the on-course bookmakers - over 20 of them - refused to bet on the first race.

THE range and quality of Irish food and drink will be promoted around the world by Bord Bia this week as millions of people take part in traditional celebrations organised around St Patrick’s Day.

SPORTS Minister John O’Donoghue gave the horse and greyhound industries hugely welcome news at Listowel yesterday when announcing that the government was renewing its considerable assistance to both sports.