James Murray, Des Maguire, Barry Mongomery, David O'Malley, Fergus Walsh, Jason McKevitt and Cllr Bill Collentine at Dominick Street on Saturday morning.

Community cleanup turnout Mullingar confirms community

The turnout for the second community clean-up in support of the Mullingar bid to become the tidiest town in Ireland confirms the community spirit that exists in the town, said one of the organisers.

The event was on Saturday morning and it was coordinated by the Tidy Towns Mullingar committee, whose members thanked everyone who showed up.

James Murray, Des Maguire, Barry Mongomery, David O'Malley, Fergus Walsh, Jason McKevitt and Cllr Bill Collentine at Dominick Street on Saturday morning. Photo by Thomas Gibbons

Chairperson, Cllr Bill Collentine, said: “We are especially grateful to the volunteers, residents, and young people who gave up their time to help make Mullingar look its very best.

“A special word of thanks must also go to the many local businesses, shop owners, restaurants, hotels, and bars whose took great pride in ensuring the areas outside their premises and along our streets were spotless and welcoming.

“Their support and commitment play a huge role in presenting Mullingar as the vibrant, clean, and attractive town that it is today.”

Mullingar was nominated for the prestigious tidiest town competition because of the outstanding pride people take in it and the continued efforts made to keep it clean, colourful, and welcoming for everyone, Cllr Collentine continued.

He said visitors to Mullingar regularly comment on how tidy, friendly, and well-kept the town is, and that reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire community.

Brian and Kieran Clarke with Des Maguire on Patrick Street. Photo by Thomas Gibbons

“Our town has so much to offer. Mullingar is blessed with beautiful parks and green spaces that are enjoyed by families, walkers, and visitors throughout the year. The Royal Canal and the greenway have become major attractions, bringing tourists and outdoor enthusiasts to the area and showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds our town. These wonderful amenities provide safe and scenic spaces for walking, cycling, and recreation while adding enormously to the quality of life for residents.

“Mullingar is also proud of its excellent hotels, restaurants, cafés, and pubs, which provide a warm midlands welcome to everyone who visits. Our thriving hospitality sector, combined with a fantastic range of local shops and businesses, creates a lively and welcoming town centre that continues to grow in strength and reputation.”

He said the town’s Purple Flag status is another achievement all can be proud of; it recognises Mullingar as a safe, vibrant, and enjoyable destination for nightlife and entertainment.

“The sense of community in Mullingar is one of our greatest strengths. People here genuinely care about their town and are always willing to lend a hand to improve and protect it for future generations.

“From planting flowers and maintaining public spaces to supporting local events and businesses, every effort contributes to making Mullingar one of the finest towns in Ireland.

“Winning the Tidiest Town award would be a tremendous honour for Mullingar and a fitting recognition of the dedication, hard work, and pride shown by our community. No matter the outcome, we should already be proud of what has been achieved together.

“Mullingar continues to grow as a beautiful, welcoming, and progressive town that people are proud to call home and visitors are delighted to experience.

“Together, we have all played our part in creating the wonderful town we have today, and with continued community spirit and pride and work carried out by Westmeath County Council, Waterways Ireland, TÚS, the CE schemes, Crann Trees for Ireland and other groups and business make the future for Mullingar looks brighter than ever.”