This year’s Iverk Show is set to be as good, if not better, than recent years and organ-isers are turning their backs on the recession and ploughing ahead with plans for the September 3 event.
Despite the downturn in the economy, plans are afoot to put in two new roadways offering better access for the large crowds expected to turn out in Pilltown.
Each year anywhere between 15,000 and 20,000 agricultural enthusiasts converge on the showgrounds and it means a lot for the local economy, with many people being employed directly and indirectly.
New ideas are always welcome and one the committee is currently looking at is the issue of allotments.
The new ‘buzz’ word for gardening enthusiasts, Chairman of the Iverk Show Walter Walsh proposed they make space available for people with allotments, if they express an interest in getting involved. They will also provide displays and experts offering new ideas and helpful tips. They have already been to Kildalton College to discuss the matter and it has been suggested that a competition might be an option, if interest is expressed.
The show itself is not run for profit - it was set up originally by Lord Frederick Bessorough with the intention of educating the peasants, teaching them how to feed themselves, help themselves and look after each other.
According to President and PRO Joe Malone, those values still remain today.
“It’s about educating ordinary people on the facts and figures of rural life. It’s for the shop keeper, the farmer or the gardener.”
With a •10 entry fee, the committee depend on the gate to raise much of the
•160,000 cost of running the day and there’s value for money with food stalls, a bar, dancing, live music and fun for all the family on offer, aside from the agricultural displays.
There’s a bonny baby competition, a Best Dressed Lady and the battle which has proved the most popular in recent years - the cherry cake competition, which attracted over 80 people one year. There’s also a decent prize fund of €650 in total, with €200 going to the best cherry cake baker.
Mr Malone was quick to point out that the recession wasn’t affecting the prize money and 99% of their sponsors are standing firm with them again this year.
It’s shaping up to be a good one, and with the phone lines hopping with people looking to take stalls, it just goes to show that there’s no recession when it comes to the Iverk Show.
