Michael Murphy (aged 74)

Michael Murphy farms 150 acres of good quality land at Bansha, flanked by Co. Kilkenny on one side and Co. Wexford on the other. The place name translates as ‘wood of the birch’ and Michael explained that there is birch still growing in the area. Michael Murphy’s story is a fascinating one, involving his success in ploughing championships, his great knowledge of the area, and his family history. He is now involved in pig rearing, which was always part of the family’s business, and it was interesting to record the changes in farming practices, as well as the family’s obvious ability in passing on the farming business from generation to generation.