Attendance records were smashed at Tinahely Show this Monday. Almost 30,000 are estimated to have attended the show, helped by good weather and the huge variety of stock and stands. It was a massive jump from the 19,800 officially reported in 2014.

Browse the photo gallery above for the best photos from Tinahely Show

From early in the morning organisers reported a greater flow of cars filling the car parks. As the sun came out to stay in the afternoon the crowds really swelled for a great atmosphere.

The 80th show has attracted record 909 livestock entries, up from 850 last year and a prize fund of €14,500 was shared among the top four championships and finals. A total of €40,000 prize money was awarded across all of field competitions and sections.

Charollais sheep classes were among the early rounds of judging. Richard Allen of Dunlavin won a first prize for his Charollais ram lamb.

Founded over 88 years ago, Tinahely Show is one of the longest running agricultural shows in Ireland and has developed into a must-visit event on the August Bank Holiday in the south east.

Food from our Farms Competition

One of the big events of the day was the Wicklow IFA Food from our Farms Competition. The competition is organised by the Wicklow IFA Farm Family Committee, which is chaired by Florence Dagge. The overall winner in this competition was “Wild About”, which produces chutneys, preserves and drinks and had a very vibrant stand on display.

Nettle pesto, nettle syrup, fennel syrup and meadowsweet syrup are just some products in the Wild About range. Fiona Falconer, who owns the company, was presented with a Perpetual Cup.

Second place went to Kiltegan-based Daisy Cottage Farm, which produces baked goods and third place went to Woodenbridge Preserves.

The IFA Wicklow Perpetual Cup went to Kilcoole-based The Birds and the Teas which produces relishes and chutneys. The co-founders of this company started this business as a result of both losing their jobs within a week of each other.

In the show’s large arts and craft section at the show, Quilt Marquee highlighted and displayed the skill and inspiration of quilt makers. Over 85 entries were received this year from all around Ireland. The winner was Mary Bolger from Ferns.

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Reporting by Mary Phelan and Peter Young; photos by John Caffrey and Peter Young