Fuel voucher and 20 bags of coal up for grabs in Cloone Show draw

The committee behind the Cloone Agricultural Show has launched its annual Dream Draw fundraiser as preparations continue for this year's event. Top prize is a €1,000 fuel voucher, jointly sponsored by Stewart's Oil and Cloone Agricultural Show, while other prizes include a luxury overnight stay at Kilronan Castle, 20 bags of coal and cash prizes. Cloone Show PRO Liam O'Donnell said the fundraiser plays a vital role in helping cover the growing cost of staging the popular agricultural show.

"We're really fundraising for the development of the show," he said. "Insurance is a big cost and there are all the activities people expect on the day. It's about keeping the show running and making it a great family day out." Now entering its 36th year, the show has become a fixture of the August Bank Holiday weekend, attracting exhibitors, competitors and visitors from across Leitrim and beyond.

O'Donnell said many people are unaware of the financial commitment involved in running an agricultural show. "You're talking five-figure sums. Some shows cost €10,000 while others can run into the €20,000 and €30,000 bracket when everything is added up," he said. Despite the costs, he said the committee remains committed to providing prize money across livestock, equestrian and other competition classes while maintaining a packed programme of attractions for families. "It's not just money coming in. A lot of it goes back out again through prize money. That's the reality of running an agricultural show."

He paid tribute to the volunteers and local businesses who continue to support the event year after year. "We're very lucky in Cloone. There's a fantastic community spirit and so many people willing to get involved. It's something the parish can be very proud of."

This year's Dream Draw offers a €1,000 fuel voucher as first prize, a Kilronan Castle overnight stay with evening meal for two as second prize, 20 bags of coal as third prize, along with cash prizes of €200 and €100. The draw takes place on Sunday, May 31, at McKeon's Bar, Cloone. Tickets cost €20 each or three for €50 and are available from committee members and local outlets.