Thousands expected at National Ploughing Championships

Record numbers are expected to attend the National Ploughing Championships in Co Laois which kicks off today.

The three-0day event is expected to be worth between €36 – €40m to the local economy.

1,300 exhibitors will showcase the best of Irish food, rural and agricultural lifestyle.

"It's a good time of the year – a lot of the crops and everything have been harvested," explained Anna-May McHugh, Managing Director of the National Ploughing Association.

"It's in the heart of the country and it's easy enough to get around at the event.

"Ultimately on Thursday, the two winners that emerge will be going to the World Ploughing in France next September."