RUAS Launch 31st Winter Fair

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) has launched the 31st Winter Fair, in association with Danske Bank, at Draynes Farm.

This year, the Winter Fair returns to the Eikon Exhibition Centre at Balmoral Park, Lisburn, on 08 December and is an opportunity for farmers, exhibiters and industry specialists to meet.

John Henning, Head of Agricultural Relations, Danske Bank, said: "Our sole sponsorship of the Winter Fair now enters a fourth decade – quite an achievement in an era where such long term business relationships aren't as common place, as they once were – and we are very proud to have sponsored one of the biggest events in the agri-food calendar in Northern Ireland during this time.

"We value our close links with the Winter Fair and hope that our investment in the event – both financial and people – has contributed to the undoubted success of this major dairy showcase.

"Our support for the Winter Fair reflects a strong and ongoing commitment to the wider agri-food industry in Northern Ireland – both in terms of significant lending to the sector and expertise of our dedicated Agribusiness team."

The event will also feature livestock competing, where livestock from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will compete for the coveted title of Supreme Champion. This year, Paul Trapp, from Wisconsin, USA, will judge the competition.

Rhonda Geary, Operations Director, RUAS, said: "2015 saw the move of Winter Fair to our new purpose built exhibition venue, Eikon Exhibition Centre at Balmoral Park. The move has worked brilliantly and attracted one of the largest attendances to date.

"In preparation for the 31st Winter Fair we have increased the livestock accommodation and now have stalling, washing and milking facilities for 200 cattle. There is 4750m2 of exhibition space and a full house of 200 trade stands."

The 2016 Winter Fair will take place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre on Thursday 8 December from 9am to 5pm.

Admission for adults is £10, 12 to 18-year-olds is £8, seniors (over 65) is £8, and under 12s go free when accompanied by an adult. The event is also free for RUAS members. Discounted rates are available online.

Further information can be found at www.winterfair.org.uk.



Image: Rhonda Geary and Billy Robson RUAS, along with John Henning, Roberta Miura and Sharon Wylie from Danske Bank who have sponsored the Winter Fair throughout its 31 years.



(JP/LM)