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- 18-05-2013 - Isn't it just LoveOlli? - At Ulster Weavers, Olive Rankin has designed textiles for the Olympics and the royal wedding. But the farmer's daughter is making a LoveOlli name for herself with her own brand, writes Maria Moynihan In her day job with...
- 11-05-2013 - Growing success - Turning your passion into a successful business is something most of us dream of - and it's exactly what Aileen Muldoon-Byrne did with a little help from our very own Gerry Daly. Mairead Lavery reportsHow often do we...
- 04-05-2013 - Crafting a brighter future - Roscommon's answer to Kirstie Allsop, crafts queen Michelle Fallon left London to follow her dream home - breaking a world record along the way, writes Maria Moynihan "My dad always says 'this place is like an...
- 27-04-2013 - RISING Star - While there may be plenty of youngsters around the country cooking up a storm, Irish Country Living has a feeling Julie Anne Miller is one who will rise to the top, writes Mary PhelanJulie, you're going to give us a...
- 20-04-2013 - Juggling hats and motherhood - With Punchestown Festival just around the corner, Aisling Hussey meets Kerry milliner Carol Kennelly, who talks fashion, family and horsesYou would be mistaken for thinking that milliner Carol Kennelly had a glamorous...
- 13-04-2013 - In the director's chair - Gerard Barrett shot his first feature film, Pilgrim Hill, on just €4,500, but his sincere debut about an isolated middle-aged farmer has struck a chord with audiences from Kerry to Korea - as well as Martin...
- 06-04-2013 - Weathering the storm - Regina Bushell recently celebrated 35 years in the childcare industry, but has battled brain aneurysms, breast cancer and losing her daughter along the way, writes Maria MoynihanAs Imelda May says," smiles Regina...
- 30-03-2013 - Garden of Chocolate - Lenten sacrifices get short shrift on a pre-Easter visit to Jim and Mary Healy's Chocolate Garden, writes Maria Moynihan Oh we give special dispensations," laughs Jim Healy, on the latitude given to Lenten sacrifices at...
- 23-03-2013 - 'You have to live in the moment' - With Daffodil Day falling this Friday, young Offaly mother and Queen of the Land finalist Claire Walsh tells Maria Moynihan how she is living her life, despite battling with cancerI love Mondays!" Claire Walsh...
- 16-03-2013 - Shepherds & shopkeepers - Lambing, teething and running their award-winning farm shop: Michael Keegan and Hannah Bolger are taking spring in their stride at Waterfall Farm, writes Maria MoynihanIt's not the prospect of having up to 600 lambs...
- 09-03-2013 - Mothers know best - Necessity is the mother of invention, as three mum-trepreneurs prove, writes Maria MoynihanMuriel Coughlan remembers being seized by something like a panic attack when her youngest daughter, Muireann, started school....
- 02-03-2013 - Material girl - She designed sweaters for Paul Costelloe as a student and sold her own collection in Liberty London, writes Maria Moynihan. And over the next three weeks, Edel MacBride will share her new Knitfield patterns with Irish...
- 23-02-2013 - 'I was a shy teenager but Top Of The Pops knocked that out of me' - Former boy band star Derek Ryan chats to Mairead Lavery about touring with Westlife and the revival of the country music sceneThe first thing you notice about Derek Ryan is his smile. It's big and bright and crinkles...
- 02-02-2013 - Last line of defence - With the Six Nations kicking off this weekend, Mary Phelan chats to Irish full-back Rob Kearney about family, farming and life outside rugbyMy best friend and I have met Rob Kearney on several occasions. Well, seen...
- 26-01-2013 - Strength in numbers - Claire Nash started in wash-up at Ballymaloe aged 13 and is now celebrating 20 years at Cork's iconic Nash 19, writes Maria MoynihanClaire Nash is mid- sentence (the subject: mackerel) when she halts a waitress in her...
- 19-01-2013 - Recipes for success - From one shop in 1985, to 17 branches today, Margaret O'Connor has the recipe for success, writes Aisling HusseyAttention to detail is very important to Margaret O'Connor. When Irish Country Living met with the...
- 12-01-2013 - Music man - Declan Nerney has been on the country scene since his teens, writes Mairead Lavery, and, with shows coming up both here and abroad, there is no stopping this consummate entertainerIf you were out dancing over Christmas...
- 05-01-2013 - Perfect knits - As the designer behind Lyn-Mar Knitwear, Lynn Elliott has sold at Harrods and Saks Fifth Avenue and dressed Jane Seymour. But it all started with just £300, writes Maria Moynihan "One day, Harrods rang and one of the...
- 29-12-2012 - New year new you? - From de-cluttering to climbing Machu Picchu, what does 2013 have in store for you? asks Maria MoynihanAnn Norton has never been one to shy away from a challenge: "I've climbed Kilimanjaro, done three marathons,...
- 22-12-2012 - Golden geese - If goose is your bird of choice on Christmas Day, there is a good chance it came from Sean Kent's farm, writes Ciara O'KellyChristmas is coming and the geese are getting fat. Indeed the beautiful blanket of white that...
- 15-12-2012 - Top tables - Gail Robinson-Guing of Wildfell Vintage helps us create a timeless Christmas table, writes Maria MoynihanOne Christmas conundrum Gail Robinson-Guing has yet to solve is how to convince the men in the family to do the...
- 08-12-2012 - Kooking up a storm - From cookies to cookbooks, Sophie Morris has enjoyed two tales of culinary success in three years, writes Ciara O'KellyS pent in a dainty kitchen beside the Liffey with steaming tea and a plate of treats, an afternoon...
- 18-05-2013 - SUSI - get your grant applications in early - SUSI claims the grants system will run efficiently this year, but it is important to get your applications in early to avoid delays. Aisling Hussey reportsTo describe the pilot year of the SUSI grants system as a...
- 11-05-2013 - Calling all men - Aisling Hussey on the Women in Veterinary conference where fears were aired about the low number of men entering the profession There is a huge shortage of men entering the veterinary profession, with Irish female...
- 04-05-2013 - What's the point? - If you've noticed significant points differences for similar courses, listen up - all is not what it seems. Mary Phelan reportsWhy do CAO points for courses that seem identical vary so much? Accounting in UCC is 430...
- 27-04-2013 - Solidarity between the generations - The young and old are helping each other through tough times according to a new study, reports Aisling Hussey Older and younger generations enjoy a strong bond, with the former providing financial, emotional and housing...
- 20-04-2013 - 5 minutes with a ... chiropractor - As part of a new series, Aisling Hussey speaks to different professionals and looks at what their career really involves Dr Anita Gleeson is a chiropractor and runs her own practice in Dungarvan, Co Waterford. Why did...
- 13-04-2013 - What's horticulture all about? - Think horticulture is all about gardening? Think again, writes Aisling HusseyBroadly speaking, horticulture can be described as the study of plant cultivation. However, a degree in the subject can lead to a wide range...
- 06-04-2013 - Interested in dairying? - New Zealand farms are looking for people to take part in a new dairy management programme. Aisling Hussey finds out more With an average herd size of almost 400 cows, it is no surprise that New Zealand dairy farmers...
- 30-03-2013 - Agriculture points race - More students are opting to study agriculture, but will this demand result in another rise in points and less places for Teagasc students? Aisling Hussey reportsThere has been a surge in the popularity of agricultural...
- 23-03-2013 - Taking stock after the mocks - So the mock results are in, but what happens next? Aisling Hussey speaks to guidance counsellor Betty McLaughlin, who answers some questions exam students might be facingI'm not happy with my points in the mocks. I'll...
- 16-03-2013 - Making the headlines - Mary Phelan catches up with outspoken GAA pundit Pat Spillane, who has been appointed chairman of the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA)Pat, how did all this come about? "I'm a retired...
- 09-03-2013 - TDs favour college loans system - Resistance to asset testing has been growing and a U-turn may be on the cards. Meanwhile, some Fine Gael TDs want to propose a Government loans system. Aisling Hussey investigatesAs Fine Gael opposition continues to...
- 02-03-2013 - Top opportunities for agri graduates - The future looks bright for ambitious graduates willing and able to work in the agri sector, writes Aisling HusseyThe UCD Agriculture, Food Science and Human Nutrition Careers day took place last Tuesday, and with 31...
- 23-02-2013 - Fine Gael TDs say no to grant asset test - Fears are mounting that asset testing for all third-level grants is about to be introduced, but not all Fine Gael TDs are in agreement, as Aisling Hussey reportsAsset testing for third-level grants would mean that...
- 02-02-2013 - Students struggle in grant chaos - Maeve Breslin from Tullamore, Co Offaly, has only just received her grant after a whole semester of waiting and worrying. She believes it is unfair that those who are trying to pursue an education to help play a role in...
- 26-01-2013 - CAO form - fifteen blunders - It's that time of year again, as another batch of CAO students are faced with the task of choosing a career path. This guide, compiled by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors and Mary Phelan, will help you avoid the 15...
- 19-01-2013 - Harvesting Australian farming - Harvesting cotton fields in the blistering heat sounds so Gone With The Wind, doesn't it? Mary Phelan learns about farming opportunities down underKildare man Mick Cusack is co-founder of Harvest Work Solutions. Like so...
- 12-01-2013 - Prospects in Ireland falling but graduates still in demand - Job opportunities in the healthcare sector have fallen in the past few years as the economy contacts but graduates are still finding plenty of work away from these shores, as Mary Phelan finds outEssentially there is...
- 05-01-2013 - Access all areas - A number of nationwide advice clinics will take place this month on the HEAR and DARE schemes which provide an access route into university, writes Aisling Hussey Students who have any questions about the HEAR and the...
- 29-12-2012 - Reduced fee for early CAO applications - Students with a bit of free time during the Christmas holidays might want to consider giving their CAO application some thought, as applicants who submit their form online before 20 January can avail of a discounted...
- 22-12-2012 - Preparing to launch? - Physio, dietetics and occupational therapy have been solid career options for many Irish students but with high levels of emigration and the HSE moratorium, what prospects do graduates have now? Mary Phelan investigates...
- 15-12-2012 - Statistics do not back up widespread grants belief - Mary Phelan & Aisling Hussey ------------------------------------- There seems to be a consensus in the media that farmers' children are more likely to get the third-level grant than any other socio-economic group,...
- 08-12-2012 - Ag science results are falling short - Figures show that agricultural science results aren't measuring up to the levels of other science subjects in the Leaving Cert. Aisling Hussey finds out whyDespite the number of students studying agricultural science...
- 18-05-2013 - Six appeal - but not for economy - Michael Moroney took the latest Mazda6 - both the saloon version and the estate - for a test drive and found that while the styling is impressive, the cars need to do more on the economy front I've always had great...
- 11-05-2013 - Peugeot offering valuable control - The crossover Peugeot 2008 has a special feature called Grip Control that will undoubtedly really appeal to rural drivers, writes Michael MoroneyThe new buzzword from the motor industry is crossover, a blend of...
- 04-05-2013 - Luxury with a price to match - The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a stylish and distinctive offering from the German giants but falls short of the mark when it comes to value for money, writes Michael MoroneyFor some cars, a model change means a...
- 20-04-2013 - Paying for badge of honour - Audi has a new A3 on the block with its five-door Sportback model. The car is impressively solid and smooth to drive, but is it too expensive? Michael Moroney gives his verdictAudi introduced a new A3 model last...
- 13-04-2013 - Yaris joins hybrid revolution - The latest power option for the Toyota Yaris is impressive in terms of driving ease and overall economy, writes Michael Moroney, who feels hybrid power is providing a real diesel challengeThere's now a third power...
- 06-04-2013 - New engine gives Civic a boost - Honda has a new diesel engine for the Civic that's economical and smooth. It's a shade pricey but running costs and long-term value should be good, writes Michael MoroneyHonda is back in the market with a competitive...
- 30-03-2013 - Leafy motoring with plug-in power - Sales of the Nissan LEAF electric car were slow to take off. Michael Moroney takes it for a spin and, as battery range increases, he can see a real future for the carIt's been a long time coming - my test drive of...
- 23-03-2013 - Trailer driving test: your verdict - We had a big response to our article on trailer regulations with mixed emotions on the trailer driving test. Michael Moroney reportsThis week we give you some of the stories from those who contacted us regarding their...
- 16-03-2013 - Toyota gives the Auris real style - Michael Moroney gets behind the wheel of the new Toyota Auris, which offers fresh and modern design, coupled with economy, to deliver low running costs. It's an impressive combinationToyota has, in my view, done a...
- 02-03-2013 - Towing the line with new rules - Last month we featured an article on the changes in licensing rules for towing trailers. This week we look to the RSA to provide more clarity on the issue for our readers. Michael Moroney reportsThe Road Safety...
- 23-02-2013 - Kia matches Hyundai offering - Kia is hot on the heels of the related Hyundai and has introduced a new-look Sorento with updated styling and a competitive four-wheel-drive offering. Michael Moroney gives his verdictIt was only a matter of days...
- 02-02-2013 - More than just good looks - Hyundai's third-generation Santa Fe SUV makes a strong style statement and offers improved performance, as Michael Moroney found out when he took it for a recent test driveHyundai's third-generation Santa Fe makes a...
- 26-01-2013 - Weighing up licensing changes - Michael Moroney looks at the issue of licences for driving a car or 4x4 and trailer against the background of new legislation. The issue is far from clear but, hopefully, this will provide some insightMacra na Feirme...
- 19-01-2013 - Ford loses focus with Zetec S - Ford offers a host of choices around the Focus model, the latest of which is the sporty Zetec S. But, in comparison to the basic Ford, does it really have much more to offer, asks Michael Moroney?Sometimes first...
- 12-01-2013 - VW beauty comes from within - Volkswagen's new Caddy Maxi Life offers plenty of practicality and loads of space. Unfortunately the view from the outside of this van-like vehicle is not as appealing, writes Michael MoroneyThere are lots of people...
- 05-01-2013 - Ford - a byword for flexibility - Ford keeps adding models to their range; the latest B-Max is a small MPV-type car with twin sliding doors for easy and safe loading, as Michael Moroney found out Ford's car range keeps on expanding, with cars...
- 29-12-2012 - Checking out the gems of 2013 - With the New Year fast approaching, Michael Moroney checks out what new cars to expect in 2013 - and there's plenty to choose fromLast week I wrote about some of the great new cars I drove in 2012 and this week I look...
- 22-12-2012 - Looking in the rear-view mirror - As always there was a raft of new cars launched in 2012 but how many of them are any good? Michael Moroney is here with a round-up of the good, the bad and the downright uneconomical This past year has been a busy...
- 15-12-2012 - Transit adds some Custom appeal - There's a third van to the Transit range from Ford and it's by far the most attractive. The new Transit Custom has entered the market with style, as Michael Moroney found outFord can expect to maintain its domination...
- 08-12-2012 - BMW's 3 Series a worthy winner - BMW's 3 Series took the top award in the Continental Irish Car of the Year Awards for 2013 and that's the car Michael Moroney gets behind the wheel of this weekI wasn't surprised when the BMW 3 Series range took top...
- 01-12-2012 - 3 Series crowned car of the year - From a shortlist of 11 exceptional cars, BMW's new 3 Series has been named Continental Irish Car of the Year for 2013, while the Ford Transit took the van title, writes Michael MoroneyBMW's new 3 Series took top...
- 24-11-2012 - Watch out, Beetle's about - The Beetle is back with a better design, more engine options and real driving style. Michael Moroney put the petrol version to the test and was impressed with everything but the engineThere's a new Beetle around from...
- 18-05-2013 - Potential for business and home - With a bit of elbow grease and imagination, Landscape House could provide a home and family farm business, writes Joanne FoxLandscape House in Clonlara, Co Clare, has just arrived on the market and is for sale by...
- 11-05-2013 - 130-acre Meath farm for auction - A large farm in Co Meath goes under the hammer in two weeks and is certain to attract some serious interest, writes Joanne FoxFarms offered for sale in Co Meath always attract a lot of interest, for obvious reasons, and...
- 04-05-2013 - Ballynoe House on 50 acres turing heads - A handsome late-Georgian country house on 50 acres in Ardattin, Co Carlow, is a horse-lover's dream writes Joanne Fox Ballynoe House is a delightful late-Georgian house, comprising two storeys over a basement, that...
- 27-04-2013 - 90-acre residential farm in Gorey - Cloneranny House in Castletown will go under the hammer on 8 May, writes Peter Varley the full range of units and an impressive range-style cooker. The kitchen table sits in the sunroom adjacent. There is also a study...
- 20-04-2013 - 125-acre residential farm in Tipperary - Impressive farm in Cappawhite comes complete with recently refurbished six-bed period house, writes Peter VarleyAn AMV (advised minimum value) of €995,000 is set for an impressive 125-acre farm complete with...
- 13-04-2013 - Kileen estate guided at EUR1.3m - Classy Georgian residence set on 70 acres of land in Co Meath to be sold by public auction on Wednesday, 17 April writes Peter VarleyA very stylish Georgian residence on 70 acres in Kileen, Dunsany, Co Meath, is for...
- 06-04-2013 - Skibbereen farms attract big interest - Joanne Fox speaks to Pat Maguire of Pat Maguire Properties, Skibbereen, where a large mixture of old and new parcels have just arrived on the marketPat Maguire of Pat Maguire Properties Skibbereen has been in touch and...
- 30-03-2013 - Period residence for sale in Clonee, Co Meath - A period residence in Clonee, Co Meath, will go under the hammer on Thursday, 11 April. Constructed in the early 1900s, Glenmore House stands on approximately 49 hectares (121 acres) of rich tillage and grassland, and...
- 23-03-2013 - EUR535,000 at auction for prime Roscommon lands - Property Partners Earley Roscommon report that they recently conducted a successful multi-lot public auction of a prime portfolio of lands located in the general Roscommon area, of which all were sold. The mult-lot...
- 16-03-2013 - Kilkenny and Wexford parcels attracting interest - Anne Carton of PN O'Gorman, New Ross, Co Wexford, has a good spread of land parcels coming up for sale over the next few weeks, including a holding at Ballyknock, Tullogher, Co Kilkenny. This farm will be auctioned on...
- 09-03-2013 - Agricultural land prices up 14.3% in 2012 - For the first time in six years, the price of agricultural land is on the rise according to the results of our exclusive Agricultural Land Price Report 2012, writes Joanne FoxOur exclusive 64-page Agricultural Land...
- 02-03-2013 - Quality Co Wexford land parcel beats guide price - Property market in Co Wexford is now well and truly up and running, writes Joanne FoxDavid Quinn of Quinn Property, Wexford, successfully concluded the sale by private treaty of a 29-acre parcel of land at Camolin. The...
- 23-02-2013 - Substantial Tipperary farm attracting interest - 303-acre farm with huge potential has just gone on the market, writes Joanne Fox A substantial farm holding of 303 acres has just been brought to market in Sheskin, Thurles, Co Tipperary. The agent, John Shelley of...
- 02-02-2013 - Splendid Meath estate guided at EUR3.75 million - Dowth Hall in Drogheda to go under the hammer this week, writes Joanne FoxDowth Hall, Drogheda, Co Meath, will go to auction this Thursday, 31 January, at Knight Frank's offices in Dublin. Dowth Hall sits on an...
- 26-01-2013 - Farmers now the 'sole drivers' of land sales - Auctioneer says very few of their land deals have needed bank funding, writes Joanne FoxAfter a period of rapidly escalating prices for farmland followed by a sharp recession and declining values, there is increasing...
- 19-01-2013 - Average land prices up for second year in row - Outlook positive after national survey, writes Joanne FoxFor the second year running, the national trend in agricultural land values is upwards, according to a new survey, by Knight Frank Ireland. The estate agent found...
- 12-01-2013 - 245-acre Clare estate makes in the region of EUR3.5 million - Estate believed to have sold for substantially more than the guide, writes Joanne FoxA 245-acre Christmas present came a few days early for one lucky buyer. Tinarana Estate in Killaloe, Co Clare, was sold just before...
- 05-01-2013 - Dowth Hall estate, Co Meath: a world of its own - A 420-acre estate situated at Dowth Hall, Drogheda, will be one of the first properties of the new year to go under the hammer, writes Shirley BusteedThe sheer size alone is eye-catching but to have a 400-acre estate...
- 22-12-2012 - Co Cavan estate sells in two lots for close to the EUR2m asking price - Shirley Busteed ------------------------------------- It's understood that Knight Frank, Dublin, has just completed the sale of Rathkenny House, Tullyvin, Co Cavan. Standing on 252 acres, this sprawling estate is...
- 15-12-2012 - Outside parties bid 205-acre Offaly farm to EUR1.22 million - Around 40 people turned up to last week's auction of an 82.9-hectare (205-acre) residential tillage and grass farm situated at Rathdrum, Ballycommon, Co Offaly, and among them were two active bidders. The property, one...
- 08-12-2012 - Kilkenny farm on the market at EUR10,000 per acre - A 126-acre residential farm two miles from Tullaroan is currently generating interest from dairy farmers, writes Shirley BusteedDespite the fact that we are rapidly approaching the end of the year, there still appears...
- 01-12-2012 - Great value in Kildare - The sale of Breffini House, Naas, which stands on 59 acres, sold under the hammer last week for less than €1 million, writes Shirley BusteedThe sale of Breffini House, Osberstown, Naas, Co Kildare, offered good...
- 18-05-2013 - Furusiyya challenge underway - NEWS Michael Slavin ------------------------------ Ireland's bid for qualifying points in the new Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup series gets underway this weekend at La Baule in France. From here on it's all to play for, as...
- 11-05-2013 - New home for Belfast's Balmoral Show - NEWS Michael Slavin -------------------------------- BELFAST'S grand old Balmoral Show (15-17 May) is moving to a new greenfield site just off the M1, outside the city. After 117 years in the now-cramped premises on the...
- 04-05-2013 - Madden takes world crown - SHOW JUMPING Michael Slavin -------------------------------- Both Denis Lynch and Shane Sweetnam made early exits from contention in the 35th World Cup of show jumping in Gothenburg last weekend, which was won after an...
- 27-04-2013 - Red Mills feeds the global market - Michael Slavin talks history and the future with Connolly's Red MillsNEWS Michael Slavin --------------------------------------- In this business you either grow or you go backwards," notes Joe Connolly who, along with...
- 20-04-2013 - Five to follow for Punchestown - Ryan McElligott RACING -------------------------------- A National Hunt season to remember draws to a close next week but before that a feast of outstanding racing lies in wait at the Punchestown Festival. The five-day...
- 13-04-2013 - Irish trophy for Nations Cup - Michael Slavin speaks to Wicklow-based designer Ian Calder, who has created the new trophy for the FEI Furusiyya Nations CupWith Ireland credited as the birthplace of show jumping, it is utterly appropriate that...
- 06-04-2013 - Voorn criticises Dutch approval system - Highly regarded Dutch international test rider Vincent Voorn was at the recent HSI stallion inspections. He gave his views to Michael SlavinIt was a surprise to hear Dutch international rider Vincent Voorn criticise the...
- 30-03-2013 - Springsteen buys Lisona - SHOW JUMPING Michael Slavin -------------------------------- The Irish mare Lisona, who starred with Darragh Kerins during Ireland's 2012 Nations Cup campaign, has been sold to rock legend Bruce Springsteen for his...
- 23-03-2013 - Inspectors hail stallion improvement - NEWS Michael Slavin -------------------------------- There were signs of progress at the fourth running of the new format Horse Sport Ireland stallion inspections at Cavan Equestrian Centre last week. The experienced...
- 16-03-2013 - Top nations opt for Aga Khan - With a new Nations Cup era upon us, Michael Slavin spoke to RDS show director Pat Hanly about its impact on the Dublin Horse ShowFears that the new globalised Furusiyya Nations Cup series would negatively impact on top...
- 09-03-2013 - Ireland fourth in Florida Nations Cup - NEWS Michael Slavin -------------------------------- Ireland's first show jumping team outing of the season ended with a fourth placing out of the eight countries taking part in the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup at...
- 02-03-2013 - Annie powers on to stardom - RACING & BREEDING Ryan McElligott -------------------------------- One of the most exciting prospects in the country was on show at Naas last Sunday where Annie Power was the star turn with a smooth victory in a...
- 23-02-2013 - Splaine facing tough task - SHOW JUMPING Michael Slavin -------------------------------- This past week Robert Splaine not only earned himself a third term as Irish senior show jumping team manager but also took on a hugely daunting challenge for...
- 02-02-2013 - Hurricane looks just Champion - RACING & BREEDING Ryan McElligott With Cheltenham just over a month away, the last major test for Ireland's top two-mile hurdles took place at Leopardstown last weekend and a striking succcess in the BHP Insurance...
- 02-02-2013 - Hurricane looks just Champion - RACING & BREEDING Ryan McElligott With Cheltenham just over a month away, the last major test for Ireland's top two-mile hurdles took place at Leopardstown last weekend and a striking succcess in the BHP Insurance...
- 26-01-2013 - Olympians top Irish Field awards - NEWS Michael Slavin -------------------------------- Olympians Cian O'Connor and Helen Kearney topped the 39th The Irish Field awards, which were presented at Tattersalls on Tuesday. Having taken show jumping bronze in...
- 19-01-2013 - Nervous times for show jumping - SHOW JUMPING Michael Slavin -------------------------------- Important deadlines are looming for all connected with the proposed new €16 million Saudi Arabian-sponsored Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup. This is the...
- 12-01-2013 - Magic Moloney a man to follow - Michael Slavin talks to Kilkenny show jumper Richie Moloney, member of Ireland's winning teams at Hickstead and Dublin last summerFor almost half a century the Moloneys of Warrington, Co Kilkenny, have quietly weaved...
- 05-01-2013 - Battling the elements in Aughrim - HUNTING Rachel Green -------------------------------- It was a cold, bright day with a northerly wind for the East Galway meet at Aughrim. Huntsman Liam McIlinden was hoping to spend an hour or so in nearby forestry as...
- 29-12-2012 - Winners all right in year of success - Frank Mulvihill reviews the national show jumping scene from the past 12 monthsFor those of us in The Irish Horse, the beginning of 2012 was marked with the passing our esteemed editor, colleague and friend, Quentin...
- 22-12-2012 - Ireland's year of the Phoenix - With a memorable Aga Khan triumph in Dublin and the Olympic comeback of Cian O'Connor, it was the year of the Phoenix for equestrian sport in Ireland, writes Michael SlavinJANUARY As the year began, Tipperary man Denis...
- 22-12-2012 - A stroll down memory lane - Brendan Bowyer fills Michael Commins in on Christmas in Vegas ahead of his nostalgia shows in Ireland Ireland's showband legend Brendan Bowyer has spent the vast bulk of the last 45 Christmas seasons in Las Vegas. It's...
- 18-05-2013 - Challenging Sir Bob to duel - Fed up of showband "bashing", Stephen Travers insists that the era was a boon for musicians and challenges a certain Mr Geldof to a play-off, writes Michael ComminsStephen Travers has shouted "Stop"! The man who was...
- 11-05-2013 - Sun still shining for Dermot - Dermot Hegarty is still a regular on the circuit, performing some of his biggest hits like 21 Years and 19 Men, writes Michael ComminsNostalgia never goes out of date. This week we catch up with Longford native Dermot...
- 04-05-2013 - Lisa & John ready to shine - Country duets are always special and Lisa Stanley and John Hogan hope to enhance the tradition this summer, writes Michael ComminsCountry music has been famous for its duets over the years. While big names like Porter...
- 27-04-2013 - Red Mills feeds the global market - Michael Slavin talks history and the future with Connolly's Red Mills NEWS Michael Slavin --------------------------------------- In this business you either grow or you go backwards," notes Joe Connolly who, along with...
- 27-04-2013 - Turning the big 5-0 in style - Shawn Cuddy on supporting Johnny Cash and being best friends with a certain Daniel, writes Michael ComminsShaun Cuddy will reach the 50 milestone next week. He was just seven weeks old when President John F Kennedy...
- 20-04-2013 - Waltzing into our hearts - Ann Kirrane is preparing for a hectic few days culminating in a triumphant homecoming, writes Michael ComminsWhen Ann Kirrane (nee Droney) from Tuam stepped on stage in the Salthill Hotel in Galway last November and...
- 13-04-2013 - Trudi set for happy return - Laois native to launch her new album in Abbeyleix alongside a host of country stars, writes Michael ComminsThere is a magical opening line in Richard Llewellyn's great Welsh novel, Green, Green, My Valley Now, which...
- 06-04-2013 - Big Tom hits the road again - As Big Tom and The Mainliners prepare to take their show to the Carlton Shearwater in Ballinasloe and the Hazel Tree in Mallow, the sense of expectation is palpable among the legion of followers of the Monaghan band....
- 30-03-2013 - TR ready for magic weekend - For more than 30 years TR Dallas has been one of the most recognisable faces in Irish country music. And when he dons his famous hat there is no mistaking the man from Moate. In former times when the road network was...
- 23-03-2013 - CELTIC QUEEN - No Irish county has stronger bonds with Scotland than Donegal. It's a tradition as old as the ages, stretching back into the mists of time. Accents dovetail and provide an extraordinary mix where the lilt of song and...
- 16-03-2013 - 'This is where I want to be. I am going to give it everything I can' - Tyrone singer Jim Devine just can't wait to get on the road. And with Westlife's Kian Egan already in his corner, the young man from Douglas Bridge looks set to punch in the upper divisions in no time at all, writes...
- 09-03-2013 - Home where the heart is - A decade on from You're A Star, Simon Casey is loving life as one of Ireland's top performers and a dedicated family man, writes Michael ComminsTen years on from being a finalist in the first You're a Star series on...
- 02-03-2013 - An electic blend of talent - It's that time of year folks and country music fans won't want to miss our star-studded awards night, writes Michael ComminsOne of the country music nights of the year takes place in the Hodson Bay Hotel near Athlone...
- 23-02-2013 - Stars of stage and screen - Sandy Kelly and John McNicholl are to host a show featuring the very best of country talent, writes Michael ComminsTwo major names from the Irish country music scene have teamed up to host a brand new series on Sky 191...
- 26-01-2013 - No raining on Liam's parade - A new twist on an old classic has brought great success for Liam Mannering from Co Meath, writes Michael ComminsLiam Mannering will never again complain about a walk in the Irish rain! The Meath man is all too well...
- 19-01-2013 - Ding ding ding - it's Richie! - Richie Kavanagh is planning a knockout year with the help of a certain Olympic boxer, writes Michael ComminsRichie Kavanagh is hoping to have a knock-out year on the circuit and Olympic silver medalist John Joe Nevin...
- 12-01-2013 - Gone but not forgotten - Sixty years after his death, the music of Hank Williams has as much meaning as ever, writes Michael Commins In the week that marks the 60th anniversary of the death of American country legend Hank Williams, it is...
- 05-01-2013 - Here comes trouble ... - Those wicked batchelors are back with a new DVD packed with laughs, writes Michael ComminsStrange things have been happenings around the Comeragh mountains in Waterford of late. That's not really surprising as the...
- 29-12-2012 - Flying the flag in the USA - 2013 will be a busy year for Sean Keane as he gets his show on the road, writes Michael ComminsThe small town of Floyd in Virginia, USA, looks set to play a central role in the life and career of Sean Keane in 2013. The...
- 15-12-2012 - Paddy savours silver lining - Michael Commins catches up with Paddy O'Brien as he celebrates his silver jubilee on the circuitPaddy O'Brien, Waterford's best-known country singer, is celebrating his silver jubilee on the circuit this year. Paddy...
- 08-12-2012 - Brendan back on the road - Michael Commins catches up with comedian Brendan Grace ahead of his new tour, which starts tonight Ireland's love affair with Brendan Grace remains undiminished after 40 years. He remains far and away the best-loved...
- 01-12-2012 - Dreams coming true for Derek - Young Carlow man putting his county on the map with new album and DVD Derek Ryan is one of the Country cool brigade who are introducing a whole new generation to a love affair with country music. Right now, Derek is in...
- 18-05-2013 - No tears over sour milk - No need to fear, Imen McDonnell is here with 20 suggestions for using raw milk that has gone sour in the fridge I am often asked what can be done with raw milk that has gone sour. My first inclination is to wonder how...
- 11-05-2013 - A little taste of Clare - Imen McDonnell hears how this west-coast county is making plans to bring its top-class food to the worldLast week, I attended an exciting event hosted by Atlantic Way Food, the non-profit, community-driven initiative...
- 04-05-2013 - Endless possibilities - Imen McDonnell has milk on the brain as she tries a crème fraîche lemon sea salt ice cream I have been experimenting with milk again. How can I resist when I am surrounding by such mass bovinity in all its glory? It...
- 27-04-2013 - Exhilarating weekend - Imen McDonnell is counting the days to the Ballymaloe Food and Literary FestivalI am counting down the days to the first weekend in May. Not only because we will hopefully be inching closer to a proper summer, but...
- 20-04-2013 - Feeding memories - Imen McDonnell pays a vist to Cloughjordon House and finds great Irish food top of the agenda Over the weekend, I took my first cookery class. There I said it. It's true - I had never taken formal instruction on...
- 13-04-2013 - Life is everywhere - Imen McDonnell is feeling completely renewed as she embraces springtime in the Irish countrysideThere are times in my mind when I feel certain I've never left the city, but when the sensation of springtime in the...
- 06-04-2013 - Fresh veg on the move - An unexpected visitor to the farm reminded Imen McDonnell of the value mobile vegetable vendorsJust as we were pulling on our wellies and walking out the door to head down to feed the calves on Wednesday, I noticed a...
- 30-03-2013 - It's Easter, but not as we know it - Blustery, cold, and far from feeling like spring, we have arrived at Easter, writes Imen McDonnell From what I have discerned, there are many special Irish traditions that have been celebrated down through history at...
- 23-03-2013 - More than a pint - After many months of working to finish Small Green Fields, we've finally wrapped the production. I am thrilled with how it turned out and I feel so fortunate to have worked with such incredibly talented and passionate...
- 16-03-2013 - Food for thought - With St Patrick's Day approaching, Imen McDonnell takes a look at what's on offer for those seeking an authentic Irish food experienceOver the past couple of years, we have attended an Irish fest in America on more...
- 09-03-2013 - An education - A whirlwind trip to the US provides serious food for thought for Imen McDonnell on the very important subject of school lunchesI have just returned from a whirlwind trip to the USA. I had meetings scheduled for each day...
- 23-02-2013 - Growing joy - A secret garden is not alone a wonderful tonic, writes Imen McDonnell, it's also a great and inexpensive way to eat really wellI have a secret garden, inside our house. And, it's spreading. It's not your traditional...
- 26-01-2013 - Going green - The stats on modern food waste are staggering, writes Imen McDonnell, who is vowing to do her best to end waste on the home front at leastOne recent morning, we welcomed a group of students to tour the biodigester on...
- 19-01-2013 - Exquisite tastes - 2012 was an amazing year for Irish food, writes Imen McDonnell, who presents some of her favourite finds to get your mouth wateringAs I tidied up my office on Sunday, I lingered over food notes from last year that I...
- 12-01-2013 - Little triumph - Nollaig na mBan may have been a new concept for Imen McDonnell but she's thrown herself into it with typical gustoOn Sunday, January 6, we celebrated Nollaig na mBan, or as it is referred to at the farm, "Little...
- 05-01-2013 - An Irish Reuben? - Imen McDonnell tries to make sense of Irish spiced beef and discovers the Irish Reuben in the processThis is far too exciting not to share. You see, I've been trying to make sense of Irish spiced beef ever since I...
- 29-12-2012 - Looking ahead - It's that time of year again, writes Imen McDonnell, who has kept track of her changing New Year's resolutions for the past 10 yearsBy definition, a New Year's resolution is a commitment that a person makes to one or...
- 22-12-2012 - Sweet delight - The festive season in Ireland means Christmas pudding, writes Imen McDonnell, who has risen to the task and found a perfect partner for it By the time you are reading this, there will be just a few more sleeps until...
- 15-12-2012 - Family tree - Some fabulous foresight has led to a great tree-cutting tradition, writes Imen McDonnell, who has designs on starting a brand new traditionFor the second year in a row, we journeyed down to the wood and selected a tree...
- 08-12-2012 - Country tastes - As far as Imen McDonnell is concerned, there isn't much that beats an evening of fine food and chat in an Irish country houseAs far as I'm concerned, there isn't much that beats a cosy winter stay in a historic Irish...
- 01-12-2012 - Ladies of the land - The trend for women in agriculture is not a new thing, writes Imen McDonnell, and the good news is, it is showing no sign of slowing downEarlier this month, I read a piece in a national newspaper about the increasing...
- 24-11-2012 - A tasty find - Imen McDonnell finds some tasty treats when an old book comes to light that was used in schools throughout IrelandI was searching for a recipe this weekend when I stumbled upon an old cookbook that my mother-in-law...
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