RUAS launch 147th Balmoral Show
Cormac McKervy and Andy Mills from Ulster Bank with RUAS Colin McDonald and six month old Nancy at the launch of the 147th Balmoral Show.
The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) today launched the 147th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank.
This year’s Show promises the usual components of food, farming excellence and showmanship alongside an even more exciting entertainment schedule from 13th -15th May 2015.
Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, Chief Executive, Colin Mc Donald commented “We were extremely encouraged by the increase in activity at the 2014 Show. We are determined to build on that success. The 2015 Show will be bigger again with more livestock competition, more stands and displays and most importantly more to see, do and enjoy.”
Andy Mills, Regional Director, Business Banking at Ulster Bank, said: “Ulster Bank became the title sponsor of the Balmoral Show in 2009 because we recognise its central importance as a showcase for some of our most important companies. It’s an excellent opportunity to highlight the support we offer local business. The Balmoral Show represents so much that is positive, dynamic and vibrant about Northern Ireland’s agri-businesses and its food and drink sector. We’re looking forward to once again being centrally involved.”
RUAS Chief Executive Colin McDonald, Liz Kelly-Ward and Andy Mills, Regional Director of Business Banking with Ulster Bank with Charlie the horse who is entered into Balmoral Show
Balmoral Show promises to be bigger and better this year as tens of thousands of people flock to Ireland’s largest agri-food event which has increased in size by 10% for 2015. A superb family day is on offer as food and farming are served alongside a jam packed entertainment programme with many new additions to the line up.
One such development is the new SPAR Arena which is a dedicated area for fun family entertainment. The packed out timetable will ensure bustling crowds as visitors are educated and entertained with a variety of acts including everything from Circus Workshops to Falconry.
The Sustainable Village is another exciting addition to this year’s Show, providing a showcase of innovative products, materials, ideas and information for anyone interested in harnessing, improving, or even just measuring, energy efficiency, recycling performance and waste management. It will provide a definitive platform for businesses representing the entire spectrum of the environmental and renewables industry.
As 2016 is announced as Northern Ireland’s Year of Food, Balmoral Show continues to support and provide a platform for local producers with the NI Food Pavilion. Will Taylor, Glastry Farm and Charlie Cole, Broughgammon Farm both spoke at the launch of their excitement about the upcoming Show where they showcase their own unique local produce.
In an exciting first in Northern Ireland, visitors will be able to watch live robotic milking. This agricultural spectacle will enthral crowds as Lely and Draynes Farm team up with the RUAS to bring forty cows to the Show, who line up of their own accord to be milked by a Lely Astronaut A4 robotic milking system.
Adrenaline junkies will be captivated by the main arena attraction as Jason Smyth Stunt Show performs daredevil moves throughout the three days. However if you prefer to indulge in retail therapy the NI Food Pavilion and Shopping Village are perfect for spending an afternoon browsing the plethora of tantalising goodies on offer.
Music will be pumping from the Downtown Radio Show Stage as local acts take to the mike and provide toe-tapping entertainment. Situated next door the garden village will provide a haven for green-fingered enthusiasts. Animals are also aplenty from prize winning stock to the cute and cuddly inhabitants in the Children’s Farm. As well as a return this year of the Rare Breed Survival Trust.
The Young Farmer’s Clubs of Ulster make a return as they encapsulate the energy and enthusiasm of the Show in their various activities from Tug of War to Tractor Handling.
Colin McDonald concluded “With so much to see at the Show it’s important to get there in good time and relaxed. I’d encourage everyone to consider public transport such as the coaches which are running directly to Balmoral Park from all parts of Ireland”.
Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn between Wednesday 13 and Friday 15 May 2015. Opening times are 9.30am – 8.30pm (Wednesday and Thursday) and 9.30am – 8.00pm (Friday). Admission charges range from £2 to £18 with early bird rates available on our website. Children under 5 years are free when accompanied by an adult.
To keep up to date with 2015 Balmoral Show news check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.
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