Innishannon vintage rally eyes €1.5m funds target

ORGANISERS of the annual Innishannon Steam & Vintage Rally, which takes place this June bank holiday weekend, are hoping to break the €1.5m mark in the coming years in their quest to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society.

Now in its 21st year, it has raised an incredible €1,340,000 for the charity down through the years, with last year’s event alone raising €30,000.

‘Our objective, since its foundation in 1997, is to make this event the ideal venue and weekend for vintage enthusiasts and their followers, while at the same time making it the ideal family day out,’ said Mary Desmond, secretary of Innishannon Steam & Vintage Rally. ‘The rally is an unique experience where visitors get to see machinery, traditions, demonstrations and items from the past. During anyone’s stroll around our events field they will come across many great treasures and many a willing exhibitor only too happy to share their knowledge.’

With over 1,500 exhibits spread across a 40 acre site this year’s event will once again draw big crowds and promises something for everyone young and old.

From steam engines to military vehicles and vintage farm machinery as well as fairground organs and amusements it will be an action packed two days. New additions for this year include Trail Star Motorcycle Action by Trials Champion Andy Perry and an extended working area including plough engine demonstration with grubber, thrashing and stone crushing.

Entertainment will also be provided on the rally field with music from Nealy O’Connor, Highland Paddies and Declan Nerney. Taking place on Sunday June 3rd and Monday June 4th this year’s event will be officially opened by former Cork hurler Seán Óg Ó hAilpín.

See www.isvrally.com for more information or check their Facebook page.