Tuesday 11th June 2013 was an thrilling day for us all at Jerpoint Park. I Percy was groomed to the last as I was going to welcome 16 International Travel Writers. They came from as far as India, China, USA, Canada, Netherlands, Denmark & Germany.
They arrived at 11.45am on the dot not a minute late & even though it was an overcast day with the odd shower they soon were getting a guided tour of the 12th Century Medieval Town with umberellas and coats in toe. The sun came out as they were capturing the moment of life in medieval times in the Lost Town and viewing the Tomb of St. Nicholas.
Maeve welcomed them into Belmore House (our family home) and where they were treated to a aperitif of proper cider & trout caviar. Lunch was served on Wedgewood china ….. then the wine flowed and the talking of the days events grew. Award winning cheese, ice-creams and truffles were all savoured by our visitors and where they sampled & relished Jerpoint Coffee.
Afterwards artisan crafts from The Makers Market was on display for our international visitors to view & appreciate , by the local craftsmen and women twenty strong in Thomastown and surrounding areas.
A display of Irish Dance was given by two young & very energetic dancers ( no…. not Joe and Maeve !!!) where the feet were tapping, hands clapping and the odd roar from the eager crowd was heard.
The finale show for the group was a sheep dog demonstration by my colleague “Cap” who displayed his skills of herding geese.
It was a remarkable display of heritage,culture, crafts, food and irish hospitality in one great location Jerpoint Park …….