Record numbers flock to Moate Show

Warm sunshine provided the backdrop for the Moate Show on Sunday last as record numbers attended the occasion which annually highlights the best of country life.

Featuring a number of national competitions complemented by family-focused activities and live entertainment, the Moate Show is a stable fixture on the Midland social calendar and with the weather proving kind to the event the organising committee were thrilled to see such large numbers descend on the Old Dublin Road location outside the town.

Moate Show secretary Colin Doyle said the committee were "blessed" to have such fine weather on Sunday which encouraged families to visit the show.

"With the weather being so good from early on Sunday morning, families probable decided that they were going to spend their day at the Moate Show. It was evident from 11.30 in the morning that the venue would be welcoming large numbers throughout the day, it was really great to see," Colin said.

The show's main live entertainment was provided by Johnny Brady and his band, the secretary stating that when the country signing star took to the stage at 3pm there was "no space available" around the bandstand.

"I have to compliment Johnny, he was a great addition to proceedings and before he took to the stage he spent time visiting the exhibiting stands and taking time out for photographs with families," Colin added.

Colin said entries in the various classes remained strong with a "phenomenal" number of exhibitors in the cattle section, courtesy of the Irish Angus Society.

"There was also growth in the vegetable classes hosted by the National Vegetable Society," he said, adding that this particular marquee attracted large number of show patrons during the course of the day.

Colin also paid tribute to all who entered the home industry classes with significant entries in the cookery and photography classes, all of which adds to the attraction of one of Ireland's oldest agricultural shows.

One of the most encouraging aspect of the show was the number of young exhibitors who entered across a wide range of classes.

"Young people are the future of Moate Show and as a committee, we would like to think we cater for all age groups. With each passing year the number of young people exhibiting at the show continues to rise and that augurs well for the future," Colin stated.

Another highlight on Sunday last was the jiving competition, which attracted a huge entry and provided great entertainment for the many spectators who gathered to witness the magnificent dancers of all ages in action.

"Thanks to the support of the local community, the Moate Show continues to be successful on Sunday last proved no different.

"We are continuously indebted to the landowners who allow us to host the show in such a prominent location each year. We had great support from the Midland Warriors who allowed us to use their car parking facilities for our patrons. Our sponsors continue to give generously and as a committee we are grateful for all the support received. I also want to thank the exhibitors, volunteers and the patrons who come out every year to support the annual show.

"Our aim as a committee is to create a day each year when the community can come together and enjoy what is on offer at Moate Show and we look forward to doing it all again next year," Colin concluded.