36th annual Moynalty Steam Threshing Ireland's a treat for all the family
One of Ireland's biggest one day family attractions is due to be staged in Moynalty on Sunday, August 14. This will be the 36th Annual steam threshing event and it is believed to be the only event in Europe where spectators are afforded an opportunity to see actual growing corn being mown on site and follow its progress through the steam threshing process. The gates open at 10am and the entertainment runs right through until around 6pm, when it is expected that over 40,000 people will have crowded into this historic venue. Harry Rowntree has been attending the Steam Threshing in Moynalty with his McLaren Steam Engine since 1976. Mr Rowntree launched the forthcoming event on Thursday, July 21 in the Threshing Museum in Moynalty. A special presentation was made to Harry for his outstanding commitment to the threshing event over the years. The dynamic chairman of the committee Peter Gaynor said it is the biggest and oldest working vintage show in Ireland. Go along to see the working horses, reaping and binding, threshing by horse, tractor and flail, ploughing and tilling. There will also be a tractor building competition which never fails to enthuse the crowds. Michael Collins from Dublin will also be showcasing the old tinsmith skills and will be turning out a few gleaming tin cans. There will also be harness making, a blacksmith at work, woodturning and basket weaving. The dog show is also very popular and attracts entries from a wide area. The fact that six acres of corn is grown on site is another definite attraction. Peter Gaynor told The Anglo-Celt that it is a wonderful family day out and there are literally acres of free car parking. Admission is only €10, and free for children under 12. Peter attributes the ongoing success of the event to the fact that they keep adding new and entertaining events each year. "We attracted in the region of 40,000 visitors to Moynalty last year for the day," he said. The Moynalty Steam Threshing Committee - Peter Gaynor, chairman; Betty Smith, secretary; Sean Sheridan, PRO; Seamus Govern, treasurer. They are ably supported by a hard working general committee and scores of field stewards. For those seeking directions to Moynalty, the Sat Nav co-ordinates are: N53, 47, 229 or W00653303.