An iDonate page has been launched to support the chairman of one of the west of Ireland’s best-known agricultural shows, following a fire, which engulfed his family home earlier this spring.
On March 29th, 2023, at 2 am, Tommy Bennett, chairman of Louisburgh Horse Show, and his family, Sue, and Georgina, awoke to a disastrous fire that claimed their residence.
‘Louisburgh Killeen Bennett Family Fund’ is seeking to raise €75,000 to help the family move forward from their loss.
On the page, it reads: “We, as a community, have set up this donation page in an effort to help rebuild the parts of their lives that have been lost”.
“Any and all donations are greatly appreciated by the Bennett family as they move forward.”
“The fundraiser will run until the target is reached, or until December 9th, 2023 – whichever comes first,” the spokesperson added.
In a social media post, a spokesperson for Louisburg Horse Show said: “Unfortunately, back in March our amazing chairman, Tommie Bennett and his family, went through a horrific experience”.
“Their family home caught fire, leaving them with nothing. We, as a community, were left shocked at what occurred, and we want to help give back to Tommie for all he has done for our community so they can begin to rebuild their home again. Please donate if you can,” the post added.
Ag show cancellation
On July 15th, 2023, organisers confirmed that this year’s Louisburgh Horse Show was postponed, on foot of “poor weather conditions and unsuitable ground conditions”.
However, due to the show hosting the North Connacht Texel Club Blessington qualifier class, this went ahead on date in the presence of competitors only and strictly no competitors.
Organisers attempted to reschedule the remaining elements of the show for the following week, Sunday, July 30th, 2023; however, four days prior to the date, they released a statement which read as follows:
“It is just not meant to be for us this year. We have taken the decision to unfortunately cancel this year’s Louisburgh Horse & Sheep Show.”
“We, as a committee, put the safety and welfare of all individuals and animals first.
Due to the recent weather, the ground for the show is not in the condition we need it to continue with the show.”
“We would like to apologise to everyone who has entered, who intended to travel, competitors, vendors, judges, sponsors and our community.”
“The committee would like to thank the volunteers, sponsors and everyone who supports us year after year.”
“There will be more information about refunds for showing and show jumping classes shortly,” the statement added.
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