Tullamore …. Discover what is on your doorstep with novel open day

Tullamore has been chosen to host an open day showcasing everything that is on offer for visitors in the area. Discover Tullamore takes place on Sunday 4 October from 12 noon as locals and visitors alike are encouraged to come along and enjoy an afternoon of free activities with fun for all the family. Organised by Fáilte Ireland, Waterways Ireland, Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council in conjunction with a local committee the open day will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the tourism assets of the Tullamore area. The Discover Tullamore initiative is part of a broader campaign to develop and promote Ireland's Lakelands and Inland Waterways which aims to significantly boost visitor numbers to the Lakeland regions over the next three years. Speaking about the event Kevin Kidney of Fáilte Ireland, said: "We hope the event will give local people a greater awareness of what there is to see and do in their community and therefore, allow them to act as ambassadors for their region with both domestic and overseas visitors. They may even consider inviting friends to join them for the weekend to sample the delights of Tullamore and its environs. Ireland's Lakelands and Inland Waterways can provide unique experiences for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities." A range of product offerings will be on display including visitor attractions, live music and activities. Locals will be able to enjoy a fun run, live music, angling demonstrations, food and craft fairs, pitch & putt, treasure hunt, walking tours, and come and try canoeing and rowing sessions. Events are being co-ordinated locally via a steering group formed from representatives of local businesses and chaired by Tony Mc Cormack, President of Tullamore Chamber of Commerce. According to Éanna Rowe, Head of Marketing and Communications at Waterways Ireland: "Discover Tullamore will highlight to locals and tourists the incredible diversity and quality of attractions, activities and entertainments in this area. It will enhance the capacity of everyone to promote Tullamore nationally and internationally and is expected to have an impact on tourist numbers and the local economy." A Discover Tullamore Colouring Competition is running in the lead up to the event inviting all local schoolchildren to discover their very own Tullamore. The closing date for entries is 25 September 2009 and all entries will be on display in the Bridge Centre in Tullamore on 4 October from 2-6pm. Tony Mc Cormack, President of Tullamore Chamber of Commerce welcomed the event: "I am absolutely delighted with the range and scope of events that has been organised. I believe they will showcase all that Tullamore has to offer in a very positive light. I would like to sincerely thank all the businesses and individuals who have responded so enthusiastically to our call to get involved. I would also like to thank the hardworking committee who have put so much energy and effort in putting this unique programme together. We would urge everyone to come along to Tullamore on Sunday, 4 October and enjoy the free entertainment." Also commenting on the Initiative, Ruth Mc Nally from Tullamore Town Council said: "Discover Tullamore Day is an ideal opportunity to showcase the facilities and attractions Tullamore has to offer to both the local community and the visitors to the area, Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council are delighted to support this event."