Support superb shows, says Swann

He urged the community to “make it a double delight for the region” by attending both the forthcoming Ballymena Show and North Antrim Agricultural Show in neighbouring Ballymoney.

Assemblyman Swann also praised the work which many of the shows’ organisers have already completed to stage “what is certainly guaranteed to be very impressive and highly enjoyable events”.

“I appeal to the North Antrim community to rally behind the constituency’s farming sector and support both Ballymena Show and the agricultural show in Ballymoney.

As well as the North Antrim shows, Assemblyman Swann also urged the Northern Ireland community to support their local agricultural shows throughout the Province.

In his statement, Mr Swann said: “The organisers of the Ballymena and Ballymoney Shows are to be congratulated on their commitment and the quality of their arrangements.

“Myself and my wife have always spent most enjoyable times at both shows touring the stands and the events. One of the most impressive elements was the number of exhibitors and small businesses participating in the shows.

“This augers well for the future development of the farming community in the constituency. The annual agricultural shows have firmly established themselves as some of the premier events in boroughs’ calendars, and they have withstood the strains imposed on it by hurdles such as Foot and Mouth and the BSE crisis.

“Indeed, judging by the continued popularity with both the farming industry and the public, the annual shows have gained the credible name of being one of Ballymena’s and Ballymoney’s ambassador events.

“This reputation has been built over the years through the hard work and dedication from those responsible for organising this quality show. “We also commend the commitment shown by everyone who I am sure will make this year’s shows such beacons of success and professionalism for the boroughs of Ballymena and Ballymoney,” said Assemblyman Swann.