The sun shone brightly as Gort & District Show celebrated their 40th running of the event recently.

And after months of preparation and hard work from the small voluntary committee, they were delighted to have the sunshine on their side – and whole day was filled with fun and entertainment.

The show whose main sponsor is Gort Credit Union is such a popular event in the calendars of so many.

There was so much to see and enjoy once you walked through the gate, there was free facepainting and balloon making, free access to the inflatable obstacle course, puppet show and circus entertainment show, an array of live music from three different performers, vintage display and the Ox Mountain Model Railway display.

Demonstrations on Brown Bread Making, Cake decorating and wool weaving. There was a variety of food and trade stands to shop from.

A parade of vintage cars was led by Tommy O’Donnell in his 1972 Rover P5 Coupe as he chauffeured special guest, Galway camogie star Aine Keane to the show grounds on the day.

Aine cut the tape and declared the Show officially open on the eve of her All-Ireland final.

Indoor classes entries were up this year especially in the children’s section. There were competitions in garden produce, flowers, baking, arts & crafts, children’s section and post primary section.

The All-Ireland Photography final winner was Cliona Jones who was represented on the day by her grandfather who received the cup and prize money on her behalf.

Bonny Baby competition winners were Lilly Healy from Ardrahan, Danny Farrell from Kilbeacanty, Emily O’ Neill, Tubber and Bob Casey, Dublin.

Glamorous Granny winner was the elegantly dressed Maureen Smith from York and Gort. Most Appropriately Dressed Lady winner was Claire O’Neill, Ballygar, and Most Appropriately Dressed Gentleman winner was Seamus Brady, Castlebar.

The winner of the Tom Joe Scully Memorial Cup went to Pat Finnerty for his Vintage 1963 Ford Consul Capri.

Overall, the day was a big success and the Gort Show committee wish to thank all the sponsors and all those who help on the day.

They are always looking for new people to join their committee; you can contact them at gortshow@gmail.com or approach the existing committee members if you would like to help with organising future shows.Pictured:  Seamus Custy from Ruan receives the cup on behalf of his granddaughter, All Ireland Photography Final Winner Cliona Jones, from Gort Show PRO Fiona Curley Dervan; Show chairperson Mary Moloney, and sponsor Nell Giblin