Fourteen French dignitaries are visiting Castlebar today where they will presenting the 2017 European Butcher Championship Awards to Sean Bourke and Sarah Ní Shúilleabháin of De Búrca's Traditional Butcher Shop Castlebar and to John and Marion Shannon of John Shannon Meats, Kiltimagh.

These two Mayo butchers won in the sausage and white pudding categories in the prestigious French awards last November.

When the French judges were told of the strong historical connection between Mayo and France, they decided to make the trip and present the awards in Castlebar.

Mayo county councillors will welcome the group at Lough Lanagh at 4pm this afternoon while Barry Ralph, Head Chef at "House of Plates" has prepared a Mayo-themed tasting menu at 6pm. The presentation of the awards will follow in the "Bridge Street" bar, Castlebar at 8pm.