Irish setters at Birr Castle

Irish setters were out in force as were many other kinds of dogs, the canine visitors seemed to out number the human kind at the 3rd annual Irish Game & Country Fair held recently at Birr Castle County Offaly.
It was a real, hunting, fishing, shooting type of event with lots of cool camoflauge gear, boots and cowboy hats and that was only on the dogs!

But they were no match for the dog whisperer Keith Matthews another handsome hat-wearing dude with a soft northern accent no dog dared disobey. Even unruly Fionn the great big Newfoundland slobberchops/babe magnet was putty in his hands....

Lord and Lady Rosse arrived in a fairytale white and gold carriage drawn by two black horses to open the event which added a touch of magic for the children....

bringing the living history tented village in the castle grounds to life with costumed characters going about their mediavel business, of hunting, fishing, shooting....

An impressive falconry display by Prince Bishop Falconry included a barn owl much to the delight of one little girl! several hawks and a fantastic bronze Kite, who hovered above the crowd oblivious to the difficult wind conditions and noisy clay pigeon shooting in the background, a testament to the handlers 20 years experience.
It has to be said that there was something for everyone at this years show, so if you missed it be sure to put in your diary for next year!

For more information on Irish setters please click here.