By Q Radio news
Ray Coyle is one of Ireland's most popular and iconic businessmen.
He's the brains behind Tayto Park - Co. Meath's popular tourist attraction for the young and old.
An increasing number of families from Northern Ireland flock to the park every year.
Q Radio has been speaking to Ray who opened up about his successes and failures.
In 1980 the former potato grower bought the Tayto crisps brand (not to be confused with Tayto north of the border)
(Raymond Coyle, founder of Tayto Park in Co. Meath)
But life wasn't always so rosy for former farmer Ray.
He lost a major potato growing contract and ended up owing the bank £1.2m.
(Ray Coyle, owner of Tayto Park in Co. Meath)
Down but not out he came up with an ingenious idea - he would raffle off his farm.
So after clearing a number of legal hurdles 4,000 tickets were produced - each costing £300.
And the rest as they say is history!
Speaking to Q Radio during a visit to Belfast, Ray spoke candidly about his successes and failures:
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