STORM EMMA HITS HORSE FAIR

FOR the second consecutive year, inclement weather hit the long standing Millstreet Horse Fair last Sunday.

The knock-on effect of Storm Emma surfaced with excess snow and ice making travel difficult for equine parties. A number of horse boxes made it to Millsteeet but found the traditional meeting place of Fair Field covered in a blanket of snow.

Some loyal patrons ventured from across the South West to maintain a long standing tradition in Millstreet.

The fair once upon a time provided horses for the armies of Europe and closer to home, Guinness Brewery availed of equine stock to draw their popular stout all over the country.

And for the Millstreet March Fair in days of old, many farmers of the region found the ideal opportunity to seek farm labourers for the year ahead, thus adding to the significance of the hosting.

Though horses were in short supply, some of the trappings of fair day were evident with a number of street traders in the Town Square and Main Street.

Not for the first time, the weather hampered the staging, though patrons missing out on the March event can avail of a return of the Fair for its autumn staging on the first Sunday

in September.

Empty streets surround stall holders in the snow at the Millstreet Horse Fair. Picture John Tarrant

Eimear O’Leary thrilled to slide down the Deer Park slopes in Millstreet. Picture John Tarrant

Libby and Jerry O’Connor well attired for the Millstreet Snow Fest at Deer Park. Picture John Tarrant