WORLD’S YOUR OYSTER IN BALLYLONGFORD

YOU might think 25 years is a long time to be swallowing oysters, but not in Ballylongford where the famous north Kerry village has just clocked up its silver jubilee following another hugely entertaining festival.

Ballylongford native and 2017 Sydney Rose of Tralee contestant, Aisling Walsh, returned home on Friday evening to help celebrate and lead the parade through the village. And Aisling attended various other events in the village, leaving many of the local children ‘starry-eyed’ in the presence of the elegant Rose.

Given that it is Ballylongford, it’s hardly a surprise to discover some of the children recited their poetry on Friday evening in honour of the festival’s 25th anniversary. Saturday’s itinerary included a children’s fishing demo where they were shown how to catch and gut fish. This was followed by a very successful Car Treasure Hunt, while local bars pitched in over the weekend with plenty of music, adding a great atmosphere to the festival.

The main event is unquestionably the traditional ‘banquet’ that brings a familiar gathering of enthusiasts together intent on enjoying a real oyster fest. This year’s prestigious ‘Oyster Swallowing Competition’ was won by local man, Jerry Carmody who has been trying hard for over a decade now to clinch this accolade! Jerry downed his fair share of oysters in 30 seconds to take top prize.

Due to inclement weather conditions some years ago, Ballylongford’s local stock of oysters was severely damaged and is currently in the process of renewal. In the interim a steady supply line of oysters come from Cromane to help stem the tide.

“It was an excellent event and the children really stole the show; they were just brilliant. The people are great here and they thoroughly enjoy helping the committee arrange the festival. It was also lovely having Aisling back home in Ballylongford again and we wish her all the best in the Rose of Tralee Festival,” said Marie Hanrahan-O’Neill, co-organiser of the Ballylongford Oyster Festival.

LEFT: BELOW: Helen Boyle, John and Vera O’Grady Liz Swanser, Margaret and Julie McGlinchey.

Terry O’Donnell, Shane O’Neill and Tim McEllistrim getting the oysters ready for the Ballylongford Festival Banquest in the Community Hall Ballylongford on

The Sydney Rose Aisling meets friends at the Ballylongford Oyster banquet on Saturday evening. (From Left): Elaine Keane, Aoife Lynch, Aisling Walsh (Sydney Rose ) Maria Keane and