Newry Show recognises the invaluable contributions made by Society members

Newry Show Society Chairman, Brian Lockhart, commented: “Newry Show Society comprises a strong group of members, all of whom work so hard on a voluntary basis, year-in, year-out.

“Of equal significance is the commitment our members have always made to pass on their enthusiasm for Newry Show to the next generation.”

The presentations made on the evening of the 2025 Newry Show launch comprised a series of framed photographs taken by noted wildlife photographer Nathan Pierson.

By common consent, last year’s Newry Show was one of 2024’s top highlights. The sun shone, the site was resplendent while the turnout of livestock, trade exhibitors and other attractions combined to deliver a tremendous day’s fun and excitement for the many thousands of people that made Newry Show such a success.

“And we will be delivering the same fun-filled package of excitement in 2025,” confirmed Brian Lockhart.

“This year’s show takes place on Saturday, 28 June. And it really is all systems go at this stage.

“Our venue remains the same: grounds at 12 to 18 Derrywilliagan Road, Bessbrook.”

Newry Agricultural Society held its first Newry show in 1869 and has been providing an annual agricultural show ever since. The event is traditionally held on the last Saturday of June.

“The records show that we will be celebrating our 155th show this year,” Brian continued.

“And the event continues to thrive. We took four years, as a consequence of the Covid pandemic. However, Newry Show returned in 2023 to a rapturous reception from people throughout our entire catchment area.

“The aim now is to build on all of this for the future.”

Newry Show provides a perfect platform for the farming and food sectors that are so important to the economy and local community.

Brian Lockhart again: “People from all walks of life want to know about farming and the way they food consume is produced.

“Newry Show provides them with an almost touch: feel experience in this context.”

He added: “Events like Newry Show take place in Northern Ireland throughout the summer months.

“It would be impossible to put a value on the amount of positive publicity for our farming and food sectors, which all these events manage to generate.

“All the local shows must be fully supported into the future. In a very meaningful way.

“Our commitment is truly delivering the objectives set for farming and food in Northern Ireland by bodies, including the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, all the local councils and the myriad promotional bodies that have been established across the various food sectors.”

No public event can survive without sponsorship and Newry Show is no different.

Brian explained: “We have received tremendous support from the local business community and many commercial organisations operations across the farming and food space.

“It is so heartening to secure such a significant level of commercial support on an annual basis. On behalf of the entire membership of Newry Show Society, I would like to sincerely thank all our sponsors for 2024.”