And they’re off as Killarney festival gets under way

A holiday atmosphere prevailed as a €4m bonanza got under way with the opening of the July Festival Races, in Killarney, Co Kerry, last evening.

In overcast, dry conditions local punters and visitors began their annual joust with the bookmakers at the scenically-located lakeside track.

Around 18,000 people are expected to attend the four-day meeting, marking a high point in the tourist season and a welcome boost for hotels, guesthouses, bars and restaurants.