The very large crowd who attended last Sunday's vintage rally in Castletownroche were in no hurry home. Even with the approach of evening the site was dotted with family groups enjoying picnics and soaking up the last of the rays that were so illusive during 2012 .

The weather played a key role in the success of the rally and organizers were counting their lucky stars that they managed to hit upon the warmest day of the year. The unbroken sunshine meant all facets of the farm machinery demonstrations could go ahead and the only disappointed tractor drivers in Castletownroche were those who forgot their straw hats.

Business was brisk at all the trade stalls and for those selling ice cream it was non stop. Those who paid in were universal in their praise of the rally which had plenty for those whose forte isn't machines from yesteryear. The funfair and amusements did their best to cope with the throng and there were queues all day for the helicopter rides - Castletownroche and its hinterland looks good from the ground but from the air it's truly spectacular.

In an era of ipads and tablets, it's a rare treat to step backwards in time and see at first hand the farming methods that were used for decades to till and harvest the soil - in this regard Castletownroche Vintage Rally has a strong 'agricultural show' feel to it.

Last weekend households throughout the region debated on how to make the most of our 'early summer' - those who opted for the vintage rally and headed for Castletown' acted wisely and weren't disappointed as this celebration of all things rural once again delivered spectacularly. Well done to all concerned.

blog comments powered by Disqus