To celebrate its 100 years in existence, the Midland and Western Livestock Improvement Society will host a mixed breeds pedigree Show and Sale at the Showgrounds in Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday 23 October.

The society was founded by Department of Agriculture officials and local farmers back in 1926 to improve the overall quality of livestock in the region by encouraging pedigree breeding. Carrick-on-Shannon was chosen as a central location to fulfil this objective and its convenience to Northern Ireland was also a factor. Over the years, different venues in the town were used by the society, until it moved to the Showgrounds on the Boyle Road in 1937, where it remains.

Over the years, the various voluntary committees have worked tirelessly to improve the facilities and today the Showgrounds is considered one of the main venues for pedigree livestock events across Ireland and the UK.

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Milestone show and sale

On Friday 23 October, a milestone pedigree show and sale will be held, with judging getting underway at 3.30pm followed by the sale at 5.30pm. This will be followed by an Open Forum discussion facilitated by Adam Woods, Editor of the Irish Farmers Journal, along with refreshments and entertainment.

Speaking ahead of the event, society secretary Lourda McGowan said: “With 98 lots of Angus, Hereford, Charolais and Limousin bulls and heifers catalogued, the society looks forward to welcoming its many loyal friends and customers on the evening. Export to Northern Ireland will be available and we are deeply indebted to the Department for their co-operation at all events. We look forward to seeing everyone in Carrick on Friday 23 October.”