Attendance soared to 78,500 on Day One of Ploughing in Screggan - up 3,000 from last year’s figures

With clear blue skies overhead, the National Ploughing Championship site at Screggan, outside Tullamore, buzzed with excitement yesterday as shoppers, agricultural enthusiasts, celebrities, and politicians enjoyed a vibrant day out with something for everyone.

From cutting-edge agricultural machinery and quality livestock to artisan food, fashion, and family entertainment, the very best of Ireland was on show across the sprawling exhibition.

One of the day’s main highlights was the eagerly awaited announcement of the prestigious Machine of the Year award, with the top honour going to Paul Quinn from Mastek. Judges praised the strong competition, noting the outstanding innovation and quality on display.

Reflecting on the success of the opening day, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh Said, “We are absolutely delighted with today’s incredible turnout. Thanks to the excellent traffic management by An Garda Síochána and the cooperation of visitors, everything ran smoothly. Everywhere you looked, there were smiles, laughter, and people soaking up the wide range of activitREAD MORE: ies on offer.”

President Michael D. Higgins officially opened the event, paying warm tribute to Anna May McHugh, the Gardaí, Offaly County Council, and the hundreds of volunteers and staff whose dedication makes the event possible each year.

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Looking ahead to Day Two

Today's programme is set to be just as action-packed, with fashion shows, cookery demonstrations at the Midland Flavours and Farmers Journal stands, live machinery demos, the All-Ireland Lamb Shearing Championships, Irish Simmental National Calf Finals, the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition, and the semi-finals of the National Brown Bread Baking Competition.

Visitors can also look forward to the ever-popular Most Appropriately Dressed Lady & Gentleman competitions, judged by influencer Holly Carpenter, alongside another thrilling day of ploughing at the heart of the event.

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