No show like a Royal Meath Show

Final preparations are well under way for the 76th Royal Meath Show which takes place in Trim’s Porchfields this Sunday, 4th September.
One of the top agricultural shows in the region, the Royal Meath Show attracts breeders from far and wide for the many competitions on throughout the day and a highlight this year is sure to be the All-Ireland Aberdeen Angus championship.
For those who have never been to an agricultural show, the Royal Meath Show is a great place to start. 
The Home Industries will boast fabulous displays of home baking and crafts, along with flowers, fruit, vegetables, and jam, which have to be in place before 10am.
For the past four years, this section has been home to keen but friendly rivalry among the ICA guilds and this year the competition to win the Inspire sponsored trophy is based on the 'rag bag’.
Of course not to leave out the great work all the children put in to the farm displays, dressing up wellies and wooden spoons and practising to be the next Paul Hollywood.
The tent is closed for judging until approximately 1pm and then you would need to stand back as the rush is on to see who got a 'red card’, or first prize. Last year the Artisan Craft and Food tents were launched showcasing local food and craft producers and a wide array of different products. A special feature in this area of the field will be a cookery demonstration by renowned chef Derry Clarke.
To support Derry’s great work with Pieta House, there are tickets on sale for this part of the show. There is a limited seated area for the demonstration which starts at 12 noon, so to guarantee entry to this area and the show, tickets are €20 per person, and are available from Ursula on (083) 8395973. There are always huge animal numbers at the show and this year will be no different. If anything numbers will be up and the Royal Meath Show has the honour of hosting the All Ireland Aberdeen Angus championships.
This competition will literally have the field black with cattle. Also being held again this year is the Battle of the Breeds where the Limousins will be defending their title. For the judges on the outside of the rings, they can prove their knowledge by guessing the weight of the bull.
The Royal Meath Show has the reputation of hosting one of the biggest and best goat shows in the country. A feature is the Volac All Ireland Milking Goat Championship and the pygmy goats are also always a huge attraction.
Among the sheep classes is the 'Friendliest Pet Lamb’. See the junior handlers who always put on a great display of shepherding.
The horse section is a hard area to beat. With classes running from 9 am to 6pm, there is something for everyone here, with lead rein classes for the beginners to fancy dress to working hunter classes.
The rescue horse classes will display how some are lucky and get a second chance at a better life.
The pig section was introduced last year also. This is run in conjunction with the Irish Pig Society and a feature that is not in too many agricultural shows.
The dog section is increasing and evolving every year. The diversity here will see every type of dog looked after.
Special attention is being paid to the rescue dogs - for those who have saved a dog from misfortune, they can tell the story of the dog and how they changed the dog’s life. Entries to this class must be in before the day of the show, and those who qualify will be judged on the day by Sharon Ni Bheolain of RTE.
There are also areas to 'ask the Vet’, Discover Dogs and Irish Therapy dogs. Entry to the other dog classes are taken on the day, so no excuse to leave Fido at home.
To keep you all bopping around the field there will be some excellent musical talent with music from Eddie Quinn, Mary O’Connor and Pat Kelly, while the Celtic Blondes will be doing a jig or a reel.
Other areas that are worth a look are the South Meath Vintage Club display, and there will also be new machinery, tractors and cars to spend the Lotto wins on.
An old favourite at the Royal Meath Show is the Hudson Family who bring a fine selection of their amusements every year. Also around the field will be numerous trade stands and stalls.

Entry to the show on Sunday 4th is €10 for adults, €5 for senior citizens and students.
Judging in the Horse section starts at 9am, Home Industries at 10am -and other sections at 11am.
For more information please contact the show secretary 086-7355557, www.trim-show.com or see 'Royal Meath Show’ on Facebook.