‘The occasional showers did not dampen spirits’

Pictured at the Lurgan Show are John Bamber, president of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, Billy Martin, president of the Lurgan Show, David Riley, vice-chairperson of Lurgan Show, Stella Riley, Lurgan Show committee member, Jim Nicholson MEP and UFU President Harry Sinclair.

That was the verdict on this year’s 101st show by Upper Bann MLA Jo-Anne Dobson.

The Ulster Unionist politican, who is the party’s spokesperson on agricultural issues, praised the Lurgan and District Horse and Cattle Show Society and all the local businesses, exhibitors and competitors who took part in the 101st Lurgan Show.

Mrs Dobson, who attended the event with Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson and local UUP Councillors, said the show was a “wonderful example of a landmark agricultural show which attracts huge numbers from across Northern Ireland, and further afield, to the magnificent setting of Lurgan Park. It is occupies a prime position in the agricultural show calendar.”

Mrs Dobson added: “The occasional showers didn’t dampen our spirits and the event carried on regardless. I spent a super day visiting the stands and exhibitors and those taking part in the livestock competitions. The huge success of all the activities and livestock events prove year on year that Lurgan Show goes from strength to strength.

“So much hard work and preparation goes on beforehand to prepare all the animals for the show and it was evident as judging took place that everyone had a huge sense of pride in their animals.”