Timing wise, those behind last Sunday's Anglesboro Harvest Fair got it spot on, as Monday was a washout in most parts of the country. Tweaking the programme from 12 months ago, organizers came up with the idea of re-enacting the closing of Anglesboro Creamery in 1981.

For this to be successful they needed the assistance of vintage enthusiasts and predictably they didn't leave the side down. Obviously, the concept struck a chord as there was a huge crowd in attendance. The vintage brigade brought with them a variety of old cars, trucks and tractors; these were supplemented by horse and donkey drawn modes of transport.

In addition you had high nellie bikes, a selection of farm machinery from yesteryear, John Flynn's thresher from Ballyduff Upper in Co. Waterford, a blacksmith, a sugán chair maker and lots more.

Side by side with the vintage machinery was a tug-of-war competition which generated a lot of interest and a well supported dog show. After doing the tour of the field, patrons had the option of the refreshments tent where tea and sandwiches were served or alternatively sampling the harvest fair pig.

Ordinarily a costly undertaking, the 'pig on a spit' was made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Tom and Niall Hogan, the pig was slaughtered by Mitchelstown butcher, John Finn and prepared and served by Fitzgerald Butchers in Ballylanders. A substantial beast at the start of the afternoon, the tasty swine had all but disappeared a couple of hours later.

The early part of the day was given over to a football blitz which proved a big hit with its youthful participants. Taking an overview of proceedings in Anglesboro last week you'd have to be impressed with how things were organized, the level of entertainment provided and the positive feedback from those in attendance.

We've been asked to give a special mention to two groups who played important roles at the Anglesboro Harvest Fair, namely the ever-efficient civic defence and members of the Liam Lynch Pipe Band who add colour and atmosphere to any gathering.

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