Spancil Hill Horse Fair Postponed - 2001

Subject: RE: BS: Spancil Hill
From: Frank McGrath
Date: 23 Jun 01 - 04:00 PM

Well today was the day.
I was only 20 minuites drive from Spancil Hill today but I hadn't the heart to visit to see the deserted roads and fields. It is sad to see such a long tradition take a break. Hopefully all will return to normal next year.

Frank McGrath

Subject: RE: BS: Spancil Hill
From: GUEST,NSC
Date: 17 Jun 01 - 06:50 PM

Further news on Spancil Hill fair.

Spancil Hill Fair, due to take place next Saturday (23rd June) has been postponed indefinitely due to precautions relating to Foot and Mouth disease.

this is the first time the event has been postponed in 351 years. The fair commenced in 1650.

In the ealry 1800's representatives of both Wellington and Bonaparte visited the fair to purchase horses for military duties. they also visited Ballinasloe and Kilrush horse fairs.

The Spancil Hill fair had already been operating for over 150 years at that stage.

such a pity to break such a long tradition.

George Henderson

Subject: RE: BS: Spancil Hill
From: Noreen
Date: 14 Jun 01 - 07:04 AM

Great shame- but back to normal next year?

Subject: Spancil Hill
From: NSC
Date: 14 Jun 01 - 03:59 AM

Spancil Hill

After consultations with the Department of Agriculture it has been decided to postpone indefinitely the 2001 horse fair of Spancil Hill. This is due to the ongoing precautions against the dreaded foot and mouth disease which is totally under control in Ireland but which is still causing major problems in the UK.

As far as I am aware this is the first time the fair has ever been postponed. George Henderson