Four Westmeath Tidy Towns win awards
Four Westmeath Tidy Towns committees won awards at this year’s Tidy Town’s Awards, which were announced in Croke Park on Friday, October 24.
Mullingar Tidy Towns won a Silver Medal, Tyrrellspass Tidy Towns won a Gold Medal in a separate category along with Ballinahown, and Miltownpass won a Tidy Towns Endeavour Award.
Carrick On Shannon was crowned Ireland’s Tidiest Town in front of 600 Tidy Towns volunteers from all over Ireland at Croke Park.
This year was a milestone for the Tidy Towns Awards, as 929 towns competed, making it the highest number of entities ever.
The Gaeltacht Award went to Carraig Airt Tidy Towns in County Donegal, and the Young Persons in Tidy Towns award went to Corofin Tidy Towns in County Clare.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary spoke at the event.
“The standard of competition was exceptionally high this year in all categories, with a record 929 entries received overall from the almost 1000 active groups nationwide.
“I want to congratulate all the winners today across all the various categories.
“In particular, I recognise the vital role of volunteers across the country who are working so hard all year round to ensure our communities are vibrant, sustainable place to live, work and visit.”
The Minister continued: “Your passion and commitment is inspiring and the embodiment of everything that is good in our communities.
“Investment in our communities through this wonderful competition reaps long term rewards for all, as showcased by the winning groups here today.
“The impact of Supervalu Tidy Towns can be seen, particularly in fostering inclusion, sustainability and community engagement.”
This year has been a success for Westmeath’s groups in particular, with this being an encouraging sight for many of the active groups across the country, their hard work and dedication throughout the year does not go unnoticed.