No "immediate plans" to make Tullamore Show two-day event

Tullamore Show, taking place on Sunday August 13 on the Butterfield Estate in Blueball, will not be moving to a two-day event this year.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent, chairperson Brenda Kiernan said the expansion of the show is something that is always under discussion.

'Tullamore Show is such a tremendous success that we are constantly being asked by various people - sponsors, traders, and the general public, if we're moving to two days. And it has been in discussion for years. But there are no immediate plans to turn it into two days. That said, it may be something that will happen in the future,' the newly elected chairperson told the Offaly Independent.

'The core element of the show is the competitions, along with all the other attractions like the trade stands and livestock section,' Brenda continued, adding that there are reservations that if the show moved to two days, it could change the character of the entire event.

'We don't want to interfere with the competition side of the show which is the key element. It is in constant discussion about moving to a two-day show, but it's not happening in the immediate future,' she commented. 'It's certainly not happening this year.'

There are over 1000 classes of competition, ranging from Cookery and Crafts to the Crème de la Crème of Irish Livestock. The prize fund for this year has reached a staggering €175,000 with stiff competition for the much sought after Gold and Silver medals.

'We have a number of new attractions this year as always,' continued Brenda. 'There are new All Ireland categories in the livestock section, there's a Pig All Ireland, and Alpacas are returning to Tullamore in bigger numbers than other years.

'There's also new competitions in the indoor section.

'We have an entertainment extravaganza this year, with Declan Nerney headling the bill, and a whole host of other local talented musicians, so it's gearing up to be one the most exciting years yet.'