THE rains came and there wasn't a dry foot in the house: squelch squelch squelch. And then out of the west, from Ballinasloe, Co Galway, came news of posh wellies at £170 a pair which will cosset and comfort, no matter the downpour.
Dubarry's of Ballinasloe has been exporting its Dubarry Country range of footwear since 1993, but has only now launched them on the home market.
The country collection uses the finest waterproofed leathers, handmade with a breathable lining and a limpet sole. Naturally, they are in country colours: tan, olive and browns, and look spot on with cord trousers, wax macs, and a well worn sweater.
As well as the wellington boots, there are several styles of walking shoes which are said to be tough enough to last many years of rough living.
Dubarry's, which exports about 35 per cent of its shoes, has 50 different styles of footwear.