This year’s Castlewellan Show takes place on Saturday 16 July and the committee are looking forward to showing off the best of local agriculture, food and rural pursuits and it promises once again to be a great family day out.
Q Radio will be on site and broadcasting live with Local DJ Big O spinning the tunes and having a bit craic.
Fidelma Carolan, spokesperson for the Castlewellan Show, said: “With dog agility, show jumping, cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, rabbits, pigs and home industries spread across fifty acres of Castlewellan Forest Park, we are all set to offer a great day out for all the family.
“The Show offers a great opportunity to enable children to get close to a range of animals with kid goats, lambs, NI Rabbit Club, alpacas as well as an array of livestock. Visitors will get a chance to try out felt making, weaving, straw making and watch the blacksmith and cookery demonstrations. The County Down Young Farmers are set to entertain the crowds with tug of war, tractor driving and water games.
“The farm model display is back again as are the unique characters Molly and Johnny who will be providing a few laughs. Judges including our Show Patron celebrity journalist Karen Patterson will be circulating for the Best Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Gentlemen. There is a small pet competition with entries on the day. Over 200 traders will be promoting agricultural machinery, environmental products, outdoor furniture, garden plants, farm toys and local crafts. 2016 is Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink and our local gourmet food tent includes producers of hand churned butter, cider, jams, chutneys, ice cream. The Farm Family Health Check screening unit will be there so you find out your blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as get general health advice.
“And Mossvale Riding Club are providing the unaffiliated show jumping with entries on the day. While the wide range of horse, pony and donkey classes always feature a high calibre with riders from throughout the island.
Castlewellan Show is renowned for the quality of livestock with cattle, sheep, goat and pig classes which are very competitive for those in the ring and a wonderful spectacle for those looking on.
“The rabbits’ section and poultry tents are always busy and children can pet and hold the rabbits. The goats will be occupying their usual location and this year features incredible cute pygmy pigs The pig section offers an opportunity to see some of the rare breeds and less familiar pigs.
“Every year over 100 dogs take part in the dog agility classes, so bring a seat along and grab a good spot beside the ring. Then head over to the Home Industries tent where you can peruse home baking, jams, crafts, photography, art and the scarecrows. If all that makes you thirsty you can have a tea and scone in the Save The Children vintage tea tent or a stronger tipple at the bar.
“The Show appreciates the ongoing support from EDA Media, Newry Mourne & Down District Council and Tourism Northern Ireland along with all our other sponsors and aims to attract people from throughout the island to enjoy the Mournes area. The Show runs all day, admission is £10 for adults, £5 for Young Farmers (with their card), Under-16’s go free and there is no charge for parking.”
For a full list of trade stands and attractions, go to the show website at:
