Longford show is not just for the farming community - it has something for everyone

General Secretary of the Longford Agricultural Show, Ruth McNally, is looking forward to her first show in her new role.

This year’s show takes place on Sunday, July 7, on the lands of Cllr Gerry Hagan, in Ennybegs, Killoe. It is the second year that Cllr Hagan has hosted the show.

“I was approached to take on the role of Secretary this year. This is all new to me but the committee that I work with are very supportive,” she stated.

Ruth is not from an agricultural background herself but she is married to a farmer (James McNally from Dunbeggan).

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However, she emphasises that the Longford show is certainly not just for the farming community and has something for everyone. Last year’s attendance was an estimated 2,500-3,000.

“It is a good family day out. Apart from the agricultural events, there will be free inflatables, kids entertainment, cookery demos, face painting and music - Declan Nerney, Seamus Farrell and Brid Shaughnessy will all perform,” she explained.

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Other attractions will include a dog show, trade stands, showjumping, Tug of War and highland cattle.

“There will also be a special surprise (which she obviously was not at liberty to discuss!),” she added.

As for the role of Secretary itself, she admits that it is “time consuming.”

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On the day of the show, Ruth will be there at 6 am. “The show starts at 11am. However, people will arrive very early, preparing animals,” she explained.

“On the day, I will be helping to ensure that the show runs smoothly. Hopefully, I will be able to wear sunglasses! However, in the event of rain, we have tents available,” she stated.

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Part of the work involved in running the Longford Show is visiting other shows. “I have visited some shows this year. We are always looking at bringing new features to our show,” she explained.

“We are always aiming to make the show bigger and better,” Ruth added.

The committee of Longford Show rely on sponsorship and a large number of volunteers to make the event a reality.

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“Longford show is one of the longest running shows in the country. There is huge support and huge involvement required,” she stated.

“There will be a large number of stewards on the day, who give up a lot of their time. The week before the show, they help with things that need to be done in preparation,” Ruth explained.

When the show finishes on Sunday evening, the volunteers are required again to help with removing everything associated with the show.

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“The land must be returned to how it was before the show,” she said.

“As host, Gerry Hagan has given us massive support. The show is in a great location (in Ennybegs) which is not far out of Longford town,” Ruth added.

Being involved in a show committee is a year round task. “The day after the show, preparations begin for the following year. There is a lot of work involved, such as administration,” she stated.

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The prize fund for this year’s show is substantial, with entries coming from all over the country for the various classes. 

“Some of the finest animals in the country are in the Longford show,” she commented.

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