Shine A Light goes behind the scenes of the Bannow & Rathangan Show

The Bannow & Rathangan Show may last just one day each July, but for the people behind it, it's the culmination of months of planning, hard work and community spirit.

This week's edition of Shine A Light with Siobhan Murphy marks the show's 75th anniversary by telling the stories of the volunteers, exhibitors and families whose dedication has helped make it one of Ireland's largest and most successful agricultural shows.

Rather than focusing on the show rings and competitions, the programme shines a light on the people whose work often goes unnoticed. Among them is long-serving volunteer Barty Walsh, who has spent 25 years helping prepare the showgrounds and was recognised last year with a Volunteer Committee Member of the Year award. He says the greatest reward is seeing people enjoy the day and being part of a community effort that brings generations together.

The programme also hears from Ella Doran, one of the younger volunteers carrying the tradition into the future. Having grown up around the show, she describes it as a "staple of the summer" and says the friendships and sense of community are what keep her coming back each year.

Long-time committee members Mattie Reville and Ita Hannigan reflect on how the show has evolved over the decades while remaining true to the values it was founded on. Ita whose parents were deeply involved in the show's early years says the Bannow & Rathangan Show is about a lot more than agriculture—it's about hospitality, community and creating a day out for everyone.

The programme also meets exhibitors, including first-time trader Element Organic Skincare and returning exhibitors who say the friendliness of the volunteers and the quality of the event are what bring them back year after year.

Listeners will also get a look at the show's new Biodiversity Village, highlighting how the event continues to evolve while celebrating its rural heritage.

Lastly the land owner James White who makes it all possible by giving over acres of his land for the event & the pride he feels by doing so

As the Bannow & Rathangan Show celebrates 75 years and the launch of a commemorative history book, Shine A Light reveals that the show's greatest success isn't measured by visitor numbers or trade stands, but by the people who continue to give their time, passion and pride to ensure this treasured Wexford tradition thrives for generations to come

You can listen back to the full episode on the podcast section of our website or wherever you get your podcasts

This show is funded by the news reporting scheme