Overall Simmental Champion at Moate Show in 2015, Shiloh Farm Forever Royal pictured with his owners Sarah and Heidi Murray, Moate.

Five things to do this weekend

There’s something for all the family this weekend so take a look at what’s going on locally that’s sure to keep everyone entertained.


Saturday, August 27

BBQ
An annual barbecue in aid of South Westmeath Hospice will be held in Grogan’s in Glasson from 7pm. There will be plenty of entertainment on the evening, including music by The Henshaws, as well as raffle prizes galore! Tickets at €20 are available on the door and for more info call 09064 or email grogansofglasson@hotmail.com.

TULLAMORE HALF MARATHON
Now a firmly established fixture on the Irish running calendar, the annual Tullamore Half Marathon kicks off today. Organised by Tullamore Harriers AC, the event has grown steadily in numbers since first taking place in 2013. It is expected close to 1,000 will take part in the testing course that takes runners from the Charleville Road out to Mucklagh, down the Ross Road to Ballincanty Cross and back into Tullamore via Killurin. Entry is €35.

MEMORIAL ASTRO TURF TOURNAMENT
The Ann and Dan Dowd Memorial Ballinasloe Astro Tournament at the local soccer ground in Curragh Park is timed to start at 12.30pm. There will be plenty of other fun activities for all the family in honour of the late Ann and Dan who carried out a lot of good community work. Following the tournament, a social evening will get under way at Joe Kelly’s bar. All funds raise will be presented to the Oncology Unity of Portiuncula Hospital.

Sunday, August 28

MOATE SHOW
The 175th Moate Agricultural Show gets under way today at the show grounds beside Anthony Browne’s Filling Station. There will be a variety of classes available from horses, cattle, sheep and poultry, to art, photography, fruit and vegetables and baked goods. There will be music from local bands along with free children’s entertainment. The show will also host the Anthony Browne All Ireland Filly Foal Final, along with a number of other highlights. A new addition to the show this year will be the Moate Summer Market showcasing the best of Irish handmade crafts, jewellery and foods. Entry forms and details of show can be obtained from Angela Jordan, Windmill Road, Moate - telephone 090 6481318 or email moateshow1@gmail.com.

POETRY IN THE PARK
Local community group Poetry in the Park is hotsing a heritage recital in the courtyard of Athlone Castle as part of Heritage Week between 2pm and 3pm. The event is free of charge.