More than 200,000 people are expected to attend this year's National Ploughing Championships in Co Laois.

The three-day annual event - now one of the largest agricultural events in the world - got underway this morning.

The Championships are taking place at Ratheniska near Stradbally for the second consecutive year.

The event was formally opened by the President Michael D Higgins this afternoon, and he says "it's probably the occasion when the city and country meet, and they meet in huge numbers":

Photo: Fergal O'Brien

Last year, the numbers attending the Championships broke all records, with almost 230,000 visitors. This year, that number is expected to be surpassed.

The action around the 800 acre site in Ratheniska got underway at 9 o'clock this morning.

Hundreds of competitors will battle it out for ploughing titles. However there is plenty of activity off the field too, with over 1,400 exhibitors covering everything from farming to food and fashion.

People travelling to the event are advised to allow plenty of time, and to adhere to the special traffic plan in operation, as there were some delays on the approach roads this morning.

Anna May McHugh - the Managing Director of the National Ploughing Association - says the event is continuing to grow:

Newstalk shows will be broadcasting live from the event over the course of the three days.

Originally published at 9:40am