GALLOWAY cattle are set to make their mark at a renowned Irish agricultural show.

For the first time ever, Tullamore Show – described as the premier livestock show in Ireland, with an attendance of around 60,000 and entries of quality cattle and sheep from all over the country – is hosting a section for both Black and Belted Galloways, and with entries of almost 20 cattle, a bus-load of Galloway enthusiasts are heading over to support the breed.

For the second year running, a bus will go on a Saturday sailing over to Ireland, where visitors will then head to the show on Sunday, August 11.

Northern Irish Galloway breeder Brendan Douglas explained: "Around 16 Galloway breeders came over to Tullamore last year and I believe it's about the same this year, which is great, especially as we have a dedicated Galloway section this time. They come to see the stock and also to see how we promote the breed in Ireland."

He continued: "We also want to show the general public what the breed offers and also educate them on the difference between Black and Belted Galloways. The show is a great way to promote Galloways in the west of Ireland. We unfortunately can't show personally because of where our farm is, but we have Galloways and they're doing brilliantly for us. They do exactly what we need them to do on the hill."

Galloway Cattle Society secretary, Dot Goldie said: "For the second year the trip is being very well supported. We're going over on the boat on Saturday afternoon, attending the show on the Sunday and heading to the Blackface National Show at Ballymena on the Monday before heading home. There's a really keen interest in Galloways in Ireland and we want to both encourage and support that."