RUAS launch 148th Balmoral Show
The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) today launched the 148th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank.
This year’s Show promises the usual components of food, farming excellence and showmanship alongside an exciting entertainment schedule from 11th – 13th May 2016.
Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, Chief Executive, Colin Mc Donald commented “We were extremely encouraged by the increase in activity at the 2015 Show. We are determined to build on that success. The 2016 Show will be bigger again with more livestock competition, more stands and displays and most importantly more to see, do and enjoy.”
Nigel Walsh, Director, Commercial Banking NI, Ulster Bank, says: “This is Ulster Bank’s eighth year as principal sponsor of the Balmoral Show, and fittingly our support for the agri-food sector continues to grow. We see our involvement in the show as a real demonstration of Ulster Bank’s commitment to the sector, and indeed, we have significant funds available to support it. We are here to provide real and meaningful help for what matters to our customers – from primary producers through to innovative food and drink manufacturers – and we look forward to further showcasing that.”
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 will see a further increase in size by 10% for 2016. A superb family day is on offer as food and farming are served alongside a jam packed entertainment programme.
Balmoral Show is joining in the celebration of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink. The Show continues to support and provide a platform for local producers with the NI Food Pavilion. Celebrity chef Paula McIntyre spoke at the launch in the Eikon Exhibition Centre, telling of her passion for local food and excitement at demonstrating culinary delights at the upcoming Show.
Jilly Dougan, owner of Edible Gardens, also took to the stage confirming the introduction of a polytunnel at this year’s Show, providing a visually interesting and informative display of edible produce.
Following the success of last year, visitors will be able to watch live robotic milking again. The SPAR Arena also makes a return offering 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 the amazing Bruce Airhead.
Both the Agri Pavilion and the Sustainable Village provide a definitive platform for businesses representing the agricultural, environmental and renewable industries, where networking and business are rife over the three days.
Audiences around the Main Arena will be captivated by the Bolddog Lings, the tantalising motorcycle display team with performances from the UK’s top ranked freestyle motocross riders. However if you prefer to indulge in retail therapy the NI Food Pavilion and Shopping Village are perfect for spending an afternoon browsing the goodies on offer.
The Downtown Radio Show Stage provides a platform for emerging and established local acts take to the mike and provide musical 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 and the Rare Breed Survival Trust stand. Balmoral Show is hosting the Six Nations Wool Handling followed by a test between Germany and Northern Ireland.
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.
Show goers can download the Balmoral Show 2016 app once it is released, which is being created in conjunction with the Irish Farmers Journal. Features will include an interactive day planner and a find your car option.
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”.
Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn between Wednesday 11 and Friday 13 May 2016. 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 2016 Balmoral Show news check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.
