The 29th Royal Ulster Winter Fair in association with Danske Bank, has been launched in the elegant surroundings of Ballywalter Park, Newtownards. Lord and Lady Dunleath who have Fermanagh connections, welcomed hosts to the launch on Friday. The Winter Fair is being held at the King’s Hall Pavilions on Thursday, December 11 between 9am and 5pm.

As the premier event in the Northern Ireland dairy calendar, it provides an opportunity for farmers, exhibitors and industry specialists alike to meet. Competition will be fierce as quality livestock from Northern and Southern Ireland compete for the coveted title of Supreme Champion.

Danske Bank are in their 29th year of continuous sponsorship of the event. John Henning, Head of Agricultural Relations at Danske Bank commented: “Danske Bank is delighted to continue its long term sponsorship of the Royal Ulster Winter Fair demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the wider agri-food industry. “Despite the present uncertainty in dairying we remain confident for the long term future of the sector and will continue to work with our customers, and others, through the challenges currently facing the industry now and in the future because farming continues to be characterised by cyclical global factors .  The judge this year is Brian Carscadden, who is travelling from Ontario, Canada. Colin McDonald, Chief Executive at the RUAS noted: “At a time when margins are under pressure, as they are at present in the dairy sector, businesses have to strive to increase sales value and cut costs. On sales it means adopting the best management practice to increase the quantity and quality of the milk produced. On costs it means driving savings through the wise use of the latest technology. Everything to do with herd management and technology can be seen in one day at the Royal Ulster Winter Fair. That’s why it is a must-not-miss event for farmers who want a business which is sustainable through good times and not so good times”.