Mullingar Show ‘a tradition worth minding’

This year’s Mullingar Agricultural Show was launched with a reception for sponsors and volunteer helpers in the Annebrook House Hotel on Wednesday evening of last week.

The evening was hosted by Pat Leavy, who began with a mention for chairman Chris Dolan, who was unable to be present, and his father Joe Dolan for all they’ve done over a lengthy spell. “Joe Dolan did an awful lot of work down the years, as well as other past members,” he said. “They did huge work to keep the show going. The show is, I suppose, like a lot of agricultural things. It’s met its challenges over time, but it’s a great tradition.

“I feel strongly, and I know a lot of other people do too, that it’s a tradition worth minding – and what we’re doing is minding the show for the next generation.”

Pat thanked those who have been continuous supporters of the show. “I do appreciate the sponsors and the committee for taking their time to be here, and every year just staying with it. We build it, we pass it on to the next generation.

“We keep our fingers crossed and that’s as much as we can do. In a changing world we’re rooted in agriculture and agricultural traditions, so it’s worth minding them.”

Pat highlighted that keeping a “competitive edge” was vital to continue that tradition, especially in the modern age. “It’s a fast changing world out there. I’m open to new ideas, and we’d love to see little tweaks in the show, to help broaden it as well, and keep it fresh, both with young and with older people.

“The show is the full spectrum – it’s social, there’s a competitive edge to it, and the competitive edge is very important – but we’re going to keep it fresh every year. There are lot of little things we’ve done every year and we’ll keep doing it.”

This year’s show is on Sunday July 12; see mullingaragrishow.com.