There’s traffic chaos in Offaly today as farmers make their way home after the cancellation of Day Two of the exhibitions at the National Ploughing Championships.
After several postponements word finally trickled through before noon that gates would not open today – however, the ploughing competitions are still running.
Severe winds has left damage to many exhibits and tents at the 2018 National Ploughing Championships here in Screggan today and has meant that members of the public won’t be allowed in.
Organisers met hourly this morning to assess the situation and this marks the first time in the history of the festival that it’s to be called off due to weather.
There was widespread confusion this morning as patrons were left waiting to find out and these women say they’re disappointed at its handling.
But while the exhibits and stalls won’t be open, the actual ploughing competitions are underway.
Most of the thousands who travelled are in long traffic queues out of Screggan this lunchtime but a strong cohort of farmers remain to watch the senior Ploughing take place.
John White is one of the supervisors and says the weather hasn’t hampered their efforts.
Suzanna Campton is one of those who’s hung around to watch and says that while not many realise it’s on this is the best part of the week.
For now it’s not certain if the Ploughing Championships will continue for one or two days this week but so far tickets for today are valid for tomorrow.
A decision will be made on whether the exhibitions will go ahead on Friday instead of today.
