WATCH: Flares and live music create electric atmosphere at Tap Marquee in Screggan
The entertainment was in full swing at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan this afternoon as hundreds were entertained at the Brewery Tap Marquee.
Live music was provided by Hammer & Tongs and One for the Road on the opening day at the Tap Marquee with another two days of music from the same bands and revelry to follow at the venue.
The reaction of the crowd to ‘Tell Me Ma’ shows the upbeat mood amongst the young revellers who flocked to the tent for the entertainment.
While exhibitions and ploughing are the mainstay of the national event, live music and some light refreshments are also very much a large part of the three day festival.
And those enjoying the entertainment certainly didn’t hold back , as our footage shows with flares and some enthusiastic dancing.
Judge Andrew Cody recently questioned why four bars are needed at the National Ploughing Championships when applications for licences came before him at Tullamore District Court.
When he was told that it was quite a big site, Judge Cody replied: “Quite thirsty farmers as well, if they need four bars.”
Judge Cody granted all three applications before him but ruled that alcohol may only be served between 12 noon and 5pm and patrons are to be “cleared and gone from the area” within 30 minutes of 5pm.
Caroline Collins, President of Tullamore & District Chamber of Commerce previously said the three days " presents a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience everything Tullamore has to offer.
"Our hotels, guesthouses, cafés, restaurants, pubs, and retailers are ready to provide a warm Midlands welcome.
"Visitors can make a weekend of it, enjoy great food, excellent accommodation and discover the many attractions that make Tullamore such a special destination.”
Traffic has been flowing throughout the day with double decker buses ferrying people to and from the Screggan site in a very efficient manner.
President Catherine Connolly performed the official opening of the event early on Tuesday afternoon.
A further two days are set to follow and with a positive weather forecast, the 95th Ploughing Championships are set to be some of the most succesful yet.