The Trojan work of the many volunteers from Tidy Towns groups around Laois was recognised at this year SuperValu Tidy Towns competition.
Twenty-four groups from the county had entered the competition, with each maintaining their positions or gaining extra marks on previous results.
The national awards ceremony was held in Croke Park on Friday 1 November.
Laois Tidy Towns groups distinguished themselves with remarkable achievements, which reflected their dedication to environmental sustainability and community spirit.
Last year’s national winner, Abbeyleix Tidy Towns, was honoured once again this year with the County First Place position and a gold medal. The volunteers, who have continued their unwavering commitment to enhancing their local environment, have set a high standard and their transition from champions to torchbearers of community pride highlights their lasting impact.
Durrow Tidy Towns secured County Second Place along with a silver medal and the Waters and Communities Special Award, sponsored by Inland Fisheries Ireland, Waterways Ireland, and the Local Authority Waters Programme. This award aims to encourage communities to become more involved with their local water bodies by helping to preserve, promote and fully utilise their local natural heritage. Durrow's commitment to preserving local waterways and ecosystems exemplifies this initiative's objectives.
Portlaoise Tidy Towns achieved County Third Place and a gold medal in their population category. The capital town’s Tidy Towns group further distinguished themselves by winning a gold medal and the National Tree Project Award, which acknowledged Portlaoise's exemplary efforts in enhancing greenery and contributing to a more serene and beautiful environment.
Killeshin Tidy Towns volunteers were acknowledged for their efforts with the Endeavour Award. This recognised the most significant improvement by an entrant in each county from the previous year.
The Tidy Towns groups are supported by the Laois Federation of Tidy Towns, an organisation specific to the county that fosters collaboration, mentorship and resource-sharing among the groups.
Laois County Council director of services Donal Brennan said: “We are incredibly proud of the hard work and passion that our Tidy Towns groups invest in improving their communities. These awards are a testament to their perseverance and the strong sense of community that thrives in Laois.” Interim chief executive of Laois County Council Simon Walton said: “The collective efforts of our Tidy Towns groups not only enhance the quality of our county but they also foster a sense of pride and unity".
“While award winners are rightly commended, it is of note that Co Laois had 24 entrants in Tidy Towns 2024. The efforts of all Tidy Towns groups, individually and collectively, is of significant value to the county. Tidy Towns groups support local enhancement and pride of place and Laois County Council is committed to supporting the groups in their endeavours.” Full result details are available by logging onto www.tidytowns.ie.