Connacht Gold and Bord Bia Aim to get Ireland Growing for Gold
Hotel Ballina, Co. Mayo was a flurry of activity last Sunday, 17th April, for the annual Connacht Gold ‘It’s Garden Time!’ event. Hosted by Connacht Gold and Bord Bia, the event drew a record crowd of 650 seasoned and beginner gardeners on a beautiful day in Ballina.
The theme of this year’s event was “Growing for Gold” and a host of experts were in attendance to give budding gardeners advice on bringing their gardens back to life after the long winter.
Recent research conducted by Connacht Gold showed that two thirds of Irish people have considered starting their own vegetable garden, but over 30% admitted that they do not know where to begin. RTE’s Dermot O’Neill and Ciaran Burke of The Garden School in Ballaghaderreen were on hand on Sunday to give them the tools and advice they need to grow their own.
“Many people I spoke to were amazed at how simple it is to get started. I hope people went away with a renewed confidence in their abilities to get their vegetable gardens in shape for the summer”, said Ciaran Burke.
In its second year, the event surpassed expectations with a record number of people turning out to get their gardening questions answered.
Anita McNicolas, garden centre manager at Connacht Gold’s Ballina store, said “We are delighted to see such a renewed interest in gardening and horticulture. It is lovely to see such a big turnout, and I think it has been an enjoyable family day out for all who have attended.”
“We are happy to assist people year round and I would like to encourage anyone who missed the event to call in to the garden centre any time for some inspiration and advice,” she concluded.
For more information go to http://www.garden-centres.ie/
