The second annual Knockbride Festival Family Fun Day in Co. Cavan, featuring tractor pulling and horsepower testing events, will take place on August 16.

Over 2,000 people attended the inaugural event last year, with the organisers reporting that they received "a fantastic response" from the farming community.

The two tractor events proved particularly popular, with 119 entrants in the tractor pulling, and 110 taking part in the horsepower competition.

Both events are set to return this year, along with many others, including: lawnmower pulling; vintage tractor displays; a 'Guess the Weight of the Heifer' competition; a 'Best Dressed Farmer and Little Farmer' competition; a tug-of-war; a dog show; trade stalls; live music; and a "huge programme" of children's entertainment.

Local support

The event is organised by a voluntary community committee, and the proceeds of the festival will go towards the support of the local cancer service; the HUB 21 Down Syndrome Centre; local schools; the Knockbride Foróige Youth Club; and local nature activist group Friends of Castle Lake.

This year's Knockbride Festival will also feature a heritage area, funded by the Cavan County Council Heritage Office.

This will feature a photographic display of vintage tractors, a wood-turning demonstration, a butter-churning demonstration, and a display of crocheted items.

According to the festival organisers, the heritage area will celebrate "rich farming traditions, local crafts and rural heritage".

Horsepower testing

The horsepower testing event is set to be one of the main attractions.

For a €40 entry fee, which will be going to the various charities supported by the festival, farmers can have their tractors' horsepower tested.

"Your results will be displayed live on the TV screen...so you can snap a photo and show your friends exactly what your tractor is putting out.

"Every test helps raise vital funds for our chosen local charities, so your support makes a real difference," the organisers said.

In a video posted to the Knockbride Festival Family Fun Day Facebook page, Graham Howell, who will oversee the horsepower testing event, said: "Last year we had a great turnout.

The organisers said: "We had a fantastic year last year

"We're just hoping to get a good day and as many people to come [this year].

"It's going to be a really, exciting day. Hopefully, the weather stays good and that will be a big help as well," they added.