Some of the world’s fastest sheep shearers will descend on Lisryan, Co Longford, on Saturday 15 August as the annual Charity Speed Shear returns to The Crossroads Inn (N39 R1X8).

Now in its third year, the event has become a popular attraction for both competitors and spectators, drawing visitors from across the country to watch some of the top shearer’s battle against the clock. Competitors will compete in Junior (1st €200, 2nd €50, 3rd €30), Senior (1st €300, 2nd €100, 3rd €50) and Open (1st €1,000, 2nd €300, 3rd €100) classes.

This years Open class will include shearers from New Zealand and Wales. Previous winners include Ivan Scott and Jack Robinson, two of the world's leading sheep shearers.

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Following the success of the past two speed shear events, organisers are expecting their biggest crowd yet. Proceeds this year will be in support of the Macra na Feirme's Make the Moove programme, which promotes positive mental health and wellbeing in rural Ireland. Last year more than €8,800 was raised for The Gavin Glynn Foundation, with hopes to exceed €10,000 this year.

In addition to the speed shearing, there will be live music, a raffle and plenty of family entertainment, including a teddy bear shearing competition for children who bring along their favourite teddy. Food and refreshments, including a barbecue, will be available throughout the evening. New for this year, camping facilities are available for those wishing to stay overnight.

Organisers welcome everyone to attend and support what promises to be an enjoyable day for a worthy cause. Registration opens at 3pm, with the speed shearing competition getting under way at 4pm.