FBD LAUNCH NEW CHILD SAFETY INITIATIVE FOR THIS YEAR’S PLOUGHING
NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh and FBD’s Head of Farm & Business Christy Doherty launch new pioneering Child Safety Wristband initiative for this year’s Ploughing Championships. The white wristbands, which will be handed-out at all of the event entrances, will allow for a contact phone number to be written on the band in the event that the wearer wanders off amidst the crowd.
FBD’s Head of Farm & Business Christy Doherty said: “As one of the main sponsors of the National Ploughing Championships for over 25 years, we are delighted to support this new Child Safety Initiative that aims to keep all children safe as they attend the event. FBD’s Champions for Change Farm safety campaign this month also focuses on child safety and we are investing significantly in our communications campaign to raise awareness of hazards for children on the farm. The National Ploughing Championships are enjoying greater attendance year on year and it is therefore hoped that our FBD Keeping you safe wristbands will serve as a reassurance to anyone bringing children to the event.”
“This is an excellent safety concept not just for children but for anyone who is slightly vulnerable attending Ploughing throughout the 3 days, as it will give peace of mind and add greatly to visitors’ enjoyment of the event. As all can now rest assured that loved ones will be returned safely in case they get lost in the large crowds that attend the Championships,” said NPA MD Anna May McHugh.
The launch took place on the site in Ratheniska, Co. Laois as the first of over 25 kilometres of track-way is currently being laid down to transform a green field into the bustling hub that will become the 84th National Championships. There is now great activity on the ploughing site to prepare for Europe’s largest outdoor event taking place from Tuesday 22nd of September to Thursday 24th of September.
There will be an array of new exhibitors as well as hundreds of outstanding veteran companies showcasing their products and services in dynamic ways. With top quality Machinery Demonstrations, Prizewinning Animals, a Forestry Village complete with Husqvarna Pole climbing, Pony Games, Sheep Dog Trials, Hunt Chase, Live Entertainment & Music, a Food Fayre, a unique Garden Project with renowned gardener Diarmuid Gavin, Fashion Shows, International Business opportunities, a revamped Innovation Arena and an extended Local Enterprise Village with over 75 exhibitors, there is something for all of the family.
Other really exciting new additions to the programme this year include a Festi’Kids Crèche, a Tractor Ted Arena, A Driving Challenge, the Foroige Junior Baker and lots more, Ireland’s Farming Festival is not to be missed..
Tickets are now available online at www.npa.ie or by phoning 059 8625125. Special student and group rates apply to pre-event orders and don’t forget children under 12 are free.