Picture Gallery: Minister lauds Kilkenny's Tidy Towns heroes

Local community groups have been feted in Kilkenny by Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring for their achievements in the Tidy Towns competition.

SuperValu TidyTowns awards for the South-East were presented to groups from across the region at a special ceremony in the Springhill Court Hotel. Groups from the city, Tullahought, Windgap and Inistioge received honours.

“These awards are just a small reward for the efforts of so many volunteers who take pride in their home town and work tirelessly to make it a better place now and for future generations,” said Minister Ring.

“This unselfish effort and the generosity displayed by these volunteers makes a huge difference in our communities. It is fantastic to have the opportunity this evening to meet TidyTowns groups across this region.”

The Minister also announced details of the €1.4 million in grant funding to assist committees in preparing for the 2019 competition. He also paid tribute to all the other TidyTowns groups committed to improving their community year on year, but who did not achieve formal recognition.

“I want to also give a special mention to Kilkenny — congratulations on winning the Regional title — and also to all of today’s other prize-winners,” he continued.

SuperValu Community & Sponsorship Brand Manager Dolores Farrell said that this year had marked the 60th anniversary of SuperValu TidyTowns. Almost 900 committees entered, and 12 new committees became involved for the first time in 2018.

“The competition has had a huge benefit across Ireland for the past 60 years, and this year was no exception, with SuperValu TidyTowns committees building greenways, eradicating plastic straw use and delivering heritage projects, while bringing people from all ages and backgrounds together to build thriving, sustainable communities,” she said.