Armagh community groups triumphed at the prestigious Pride of Place community awards on Saturday evening (November 2) at a gala ceremony in Monaghan.
Vibe, Armagh City took first place in the Inclusive Communities (city) category with judges particularly impressed with the efforts they saw to regenerate the area.
“The judges received a wonderful warm welcome to this community hub, which was the initiative of a group of young people who had been preparing for years to create a special place where all are welcomed and cared for – including people from strife torn countries.
“The centre runs a weekly youth club and provides a safe space after school for young people to drop in with their peers. Community integration is encouraged through services provided, but pervading all is the palpable sincerity and commitment of the group.”
Also winning on the night was Nit and Natters knitting group in the Community Well-Being Initiative (city). Judges commented on the impact the group has been making.
Related: Nit & Natters knitting group proving a real hit, with oldest member aged 93
“At the heart of this initiative is the recognition that a pleasurable and profitable activity also enhances well-being, socialisation and motor activities.
“From small beginnings this diverse group now comprises over 50 members and provides significant support for local charities and local sports clubs. The judges were truly impressed and inspired with what has been achieved to date and had no hesitation in selecting this wonderful community of knitters as category winners.”
Winners of Cities Category Seven Community Wellbeing Initiative, Nit And Natters, Armagh City.
Elsewhere, Portadown came runner up in the Areas with a Population of 2000-5000 category to Cabra in Dublin. Workers at Portadown Wellness Centre attended to accept the prize.
The awards, hosted by RTE’s Brendan McArdle, took place in in front of 400 community volunteers from across the island. The awards were delivered in partnership with Monaghan County Council. Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council hosted the 2023 awards in the Armagh City Hotel.
Runner-up in Category 4 Population Of 2000- 5000 Portadown Wellness Centre, Co. Armagh.
Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 22 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development.
It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.
President Michael D. Higgins, Joint Patron of Co-operation Ireland, said the awards played an important role.
“The Pride of Place awards are a most important initiative, reminding us that creating societies that are ethical and inclusive is a task for all of our citizens, of all ages and circumstances.”
Cathaoirleach, Monaghan County Council, Cathy Bennett, said: “We are honoured as one of the smallest local authorities on the island to have been entrusted by Co-operation Ireland and IPB Insurance to host this year’s Pride of Place Awards.
“In keeping with the county’s tradition of quality food production, we proudly showcased the best of Monaghan fare at the gala dinner which accompanied the awards ceremony. Entertainment was provided by composer Jamie Duffy, who at the tender age of twenty-two already has a number one streaming single under his belt.
“In addition to the main event, Pride of Place awards attendees received complimentary passes to the world premiere performance of ‘The Butcher Boy’ author Pat McCabe’s new play, “Little White Lies” on Friday night.
“We enjoyed sharing our little corner of the country with communities from all over Ireland.”
Pride of Place founder and Chairman Tom Dowling said: “After 22 extraordinary years, our judges still never cease to be inspired by the wonderful achievements of the fantastic communities nominated by their local council to represent their place in these prestigious awards.”
Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland said: “Co-operation Ireland has no other programme that embodies the charity’s ethos better than Pride of Place.
“We work to build relationships across the island and Pride of Place plays a critical role in that work. The impact the awards have had in towns and villages across the island since they started two decades ago cannot be underestimated, and the continuing success of the awards is down to the dedicated volunteers and their love of where they live.”
John Hogan, Chairman, IPB Insurance said. “On behalf of our local authority members we are proud to be associated with the Pride of Place awards as title sponsors. This is truly a unique competition, providing an all-island platform that recognises the great strides volunteers are making in building more inclusive, sustainable, and welcoming communities. These awards shine a light on the work being done in our communities by celebrating the volunteers who give of their time in the spirit of collaboration. Their selfless efforts are making a real difference for all who live and work in their communities. It is therefore essential that we celebrate the excellent work accomplished around the island of Ireland by showcasing what can be achieved when we all work together.”
