Contestants are gearing up for the 18th annual 'Aurivo North-West Kings and Queens' event run by Macra, which is set to take place this Saturday (January 18).

The chair of the event, Caoin McCabe, told Agriland: "This year we have contestants from all nine counties in the northwest including Donegal, Monaghan, Cavan, Leitrim, Longford, Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon and Galway."

The event, traditionally one of Macra's stand out social gatherings, has also attracted contestants from counties Louth, Wexford and Cork are also participating in this year's competition.

The kings and queens will arrive at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Co. Sligo on Saturday morning where they will meet with the event committee and judges before taking part in a day of activities under the watchful eyes of the judges who will pick the overall winner.

In the evening, over 280 young Macra members will also enjoy a gala banquet and get the chance to see all of the competing kings and queens take part in the interview process that could help to determine the winner.

McCabe said: "As a committee, we want to wish all our kings and queens the very best of luck for the weekend.

Last year the Aurivo co-op committed to a four year partnership with the Northwest Macra Executive Committee until 2028.

McCabe acknowledged the continuing support of Aurivo and underlined how important it is to the organisation.

Meanwhile the co-op's communications and brand manager Niamh Jinks, said it was "thrilled" to sponsor the event again this year.

"Best wishes to the kings and queens who are representing their local Macra clubs, communities and counties," Jinks added.

Separately the winner of the Aurivo north-west silage competition will also be announced also on the night. The competition was open to Macra young farmer members and a huge number of entries were received.