In Pictures: Limerick people descend on Laois for the National Ploughing Championships

BIBLICAL, is the only way the weather could be described on the first day of the National Ploughing Championships 2023.

Despite rain pouring from the heavens and mountains of mud, thousands of spectators made their way to Ratheniska in County Laois on Tuesday morning.

More than 66,000 people attended on Tuesday while the attendance rose to more than 71,000 on Tuesday - thanks to the improvement in the weather.

After a week of heavy rain and warnings, punters were told to expect the worst weather wise and that is certainly what they got on the first day of the championships.

However, the miserable weather didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits as families, groups of students and farmers trudged through the 200 acre site.

In Pictures: 20 photos from day 1 of the National Ploughing Championships

Children dressed in their finest rain gear clambered on some of the machinery on show while teenagers could be heard screaming in delight as they enjoyed the fairground rides.

At one stage the walkways turned into rivers as those who forgot their welly boots tried their best to avoid the water while those who came prepared waded through the muddiness.

As the day went on, the rain cleared slightly to allow some reprieve and just enough time for many to enjoy their carton of soggy chips.

WATCH: Limerick families brave rain for National Ploughing Championships

Young Paddy McCormac and Ella Walsh from Murroe were ready for the poor weather in their ponchos and even though they were soaked through, their smiles said it all.

The Ploughing is not just a place for farmers to get a good deal or students to escape the classroom for a day, it is an opportunity for families to put on their messiest clothes and enjoy themselves. Together.

On Tuesday morning, Limerick legend Celia Holman Lee kicked off the first of her famous fashion shows, remarking on the great turnout at the event even though most in attendance were wearing welly boots instead of high heels.

WATCH: Limerick's Celia Holman Lee celebrates over 30 years at National Ploughing Championships

There ire millions of euro worth of agricultural and plant machinery on display featuring an extensive range of cutting edge agricultural technology and equipment, with the opportunity to see these in action in the machinery demonstration area.

Over 1,700 exhibitors are on site for the three day event, showcasing their work with stalls including livestock, machinery, agri-business, house and home, energy and forestry.

There is truly something for everyone at the Ploughing and if you think it may not be for you then I guarantee you will be pleasantly surprised.

Cookery demonstrations, fashion shows, opportunities to try out everything from machinery to sports equipment. It really is the show for people of all ages and from all walks of life.

See this week's Limerick Leader newspaper for further coverage and photographs from the National Ploughing Championships - on sale NOW!