Ballycross Apple Farm in Bridgetown, Co. Wexford has announced its decision to close its doors to the public this week.
The farm was open over weekends for visitors up to six months of the year from May to December, with a particular festive atmosphere around Halloween, where visitors could come and pick their own pumpkins.
In a statement, Ballycross Apple Farm said it was with “a heavy heart” that the decision to not re-open was made.
“We would like to thank each and every customer who ever paid a visit to the farm over the many years we have been open, your custom has been very much appreciated,” the team at Ballycross Apple Farm stated.
Juice produce from the farm will remain available in the usual local and independent retailers in Co. Wexford.
Ballycross Apple Farm
Many families have been saddened by the news, and the community in Bridgetown is “feeling broken hearted”, according to Sinn Féin Councillor Aoife Rose O’Brien.
“It was a fantastic amenity that put Bridgetown on the map and it was something us locals were quite proud of. It was like a home away from home for some people,” Cllr. O’Brien said.
She said that at Halloween time, people would travel from all around the south east and other parts of the country for pumpkin picking.
“I have brilliant memories from being there when I was a child and I was lucky enough to then make similar memories with my own child,” Cllr. O’Brien added.
The councillor said she is asking that the public provide privacy to the family at the moment and to “hold on to the fond memories the farm created”.