Fleadh town benefits to the tune of €38m

Cathal Fitzgerald, from Tralee, Co Kerry, with ‘Bobby’ and Darragh Claffey, from Dublin, at the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Ennis, Co Clare. Photo: Eamon Ward

Businesses in Ennis, Co Clare, are well on their way to enjoying a €38m bonanza from this year's Fleadh as organisers said that numbers are "well up" on last year.

The president of the Ennis Chamber of Commerce, William Cahir, said that "trade for local business is well up on last year and businesses are extremely happy"

Firms are making a special effort to mark this year's traditional music festival.

Tyre centre owner Pat Foudy staged "a monster" session at his business during the week at which 18 musicians performed for over 200 locals. "It was very memorable and was a great success. The session was for the elderly living around here who can't get up the town to enjoy the music," Mr Foudy said. The owner of the Old Ground hotel, Allen Flynn, has placed a 'Fr Ted' caravan in the hotel grounds with church pews outside to complete the effect. "We had 27 children playing music in the caravan last night. It has been great," he said.

Elsewhere, 12 musicians yesterday made their way into 'Willow' boutique to entertain while staff gave out free candy floss to children. Owner Jean McCabe said that business "is significantly up on last year, but this is about giving something back and putting on a big welcome for everyone."