More than 10,000 expected at Virginia Show

The Virginia Show kicks off tomorrow (Wednesday), after more than 200 volunteers brought the event together after almost a full year of preparation. "The work really starts a week after the last show," said vice-president of the Virginia Show Society Ronan O'Reilly ahead of the event.

Ronan, whose father and grandfather also were heavily involved, emphasised the team effort. "People from Mountnugent to the far side of Bailieborough all the way to Cavan pull together. It's a special day for everyone."

While the format remains familiar, small changes are introduced each year as the committee looks at how the event can continue to develop. Side saddle horse riding is a novelty this year for guests to enjoy.

Paul Keogan, Master Steward for the Horses, hopes this class will gain traction in the future. "It's a novelty act, a spectacle, it takes a lot of effort to ride a horse like that."

This year's home industries section is booming with more than 2,000 exhibits ranging from cakes, flowers and floral arrangements to photography, knitting, crochet and children's projects such as the decorated wooden spoon. Alongside these guests will find trade stands, livestock, equestrian events and plenty for families to explore.

With over 10,000 visitors expected to attend, Virginia Show remains one of the largest one-day agricultural events in the region. Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of attractions, including livestock competitions, equestrian events, sheep shearing demonstrations, artisan food producers, trade exhibitions, live entertainment, children's activities, and one of the region's most popular dog shows. This year, the organisers have added a sensory room to the small playground area for kids - there is something happening around every corner.

Baileys Cow

In the hall where on a regular basis the Eagles soar to score, sections with straw beddings accommodate 25 black and white cows. The Baileys Cow Champion event has been running for more than 40 years in Virginia showcasing elite Holstein Friesian dairy cows from across Ireland. "This is the cream of the cream, this is what everyone wants to win," said Ronan – pun not intended.

The farmers started arriving Sunday to give their cow a chance to settle in. While the cows relax on straw beds, the farmers plant themselves on camping chairs. "They stay with them day and night," Ronan said, describing the family commitment each entry involves. Grooming, shaving, washing their cows in hope for the prestigious rosette that will lift the whole herd.