Thousands flock to National Ploughing Championships

Tens of thousands of people will converge on Co Kildare over the next three days for the 2011 National Ploughing Championships.

The country's largest outdoor agricultural event, which is marking its 80th anniversary this year, is taking place in Cardenton close to Athy - which hosted the first event in 1931.

It is estimated the championships will generate millions of euro for the local economy - with crowds of up to 180,000 expected to attend.

President Mary McAleese will officially open the championships at 12 noon, but the action around the 700 acre site will get underway from 9am.

Hundreds of competitors will battle it out for ploughing titles. - There is plenty of activity off the field too with more than 1,100 exhibitors with everything from farming to forestry to food and fashion.

The event has grown to become one of the largest livestock and machinery displays in Europe.

Presidential candidates will also be out in force pressing the flesh over the three days.

People travelling to the event are advised to allow plenty of time and to adhere to the special Garda traffic plan in operation.