Galway Rural Development (GRD) has announced a LEADER grant of almost €130,000 to support the European Sheep Shearing and Wool-Handling Championships at Mountbellew.

Shearfest, expected to be one of the biggest events in the west of Ireland this year, will take place over the June Bank Holiday weekend (May 30 to June 1).

The funding to the Mountbellew Social Development Co-op Society will focus on targeted efforts to promote and deliver the event.

Building on the foundations of the 2024 All-Ireland Festival, it is hoped to increase attendance and create a significant draw for the region which will leave a positive economic and cultural impact.

Speaking on behalf of the festival committee, chairperson Michael Cunniffe said: “We’re delighted to receive this support and Shearfest 2025 is going to be a roaring success".

"There will also be outstanding entertainment on show which will further enhance the atmosphere," he said.

Steve Dolan, chief executive of Galway Rural Development added: “After announcing Mountbellew as our first ‘Smart Village’ four years ago, we followed-up with training which saw the establishment of several new initiatives".

"We have since provided a range of supports, including most recently to the playground, we’ve opened a Mountbellew office, and we are delighted to again demonstrate our commitment to this special town. All credit to the Mountbellew community," he said.