North Sligo Show a day to bring us together
THE last bank holiday of the summer is upon us and it’s something to make the most of.
For me, the decision will be easy; it’s North Sligo Agricultural Show time. It’s amazing how events such as this can bridge the gap of time. The show is now celebrating its 71st year. When the first show was held on September 12 1945, Ireland was a very different place. World War Two had not long ended and the village had no running water or electricity. Yet with over 100 classes, there were 1,150 entries. Categories which have survived to today include home crafts, agricultural produce, cattle, sheep and horses.
The show has survived thanks to its ability to adapt; while an agricultural show at the core, it offers live music, bouncy castles and attractions to suit all ages.
As well as keeping up with tradition, shows are also a way of remembering the past and those who were once part of the show. This year there is the addition of the Mary Feeney Memorial Perpetual Cup in the adult art class section. A wonderful woman who passed away this year, her talent as an artist will now be remembered in this lovely way.
While attendees at the show are free to walk around and enjoy themselves, the day would not be such a success without the hard work put in behind the scenes. On many a winters night, while we are sitting in front of our roaring fires watching television, the committee are braving the elements to attend meetings to make sure the day many months down the line comes off without a hitch.
It is a day for the community and to remind people that they are part of a community.
All too often it can be a sad event which sees communities come together such as a funeral, and so it is wonderful to see an annual event bringing people together where the day is filled with fun and laughter.
Well done to all involved in carrying on this event. So have your wellies, sunscreen, shorts and winter woollies ready - while the committee can plan nearly everything to a T, unfortunately the one thing they can’t is the weather!
North Sligo Agricultural Show takes place on Saturday August 5 at Gilroy’s Yard Grange.
For more information log on to www. northsligoagrishow.ie or find North Sligo Agricultural Show on Facebook.