Ploughing championships first for mayo

CASTLEBAR Men's Shed created a little bit of history at the National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co. Laois, yesterday.

The men's shed and Mayo were very ably represented by Robert Coyne who was the first Mayo man to compete in the vintage section of the ploughing championship.

Well done Robert for flying the flag for Mayo on the national stage.

Mayo had a strong commercial presence at the ploughing. Westport-based Portwest, who launched a new range of farm safety workwear, were reported to be doing lively business, with McHale's prominent in the machinery section.

Horkan's Garden Centre also had a stand, attracting a lot of interest from event goers.

The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton, was on hand to announce the winners of the Enterprise Ireland Toplink.ie Innovation Arena Awards, which  recognise and reward outstanding innovation in the agricultural sector.

The competition attracted 170 entries, with Mayo based Malone Engineering being named Agri Engineering Special Merit Award winner in the established company category.

A contingent from Mayo IFA, including chairman Padraic Joyce, have also been busy meeting farmers.