“Pride of Place” judging is over, bring on the next challenge

It was a wonderful day in the life of the people of the Tydavnet area, as judging took place today in the 2012 All Ireland Pride of Place competition. The competition is sponsored by the Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances. As expected, two judges arrived in the company of Maurice Inglis, coordinator of the Cooperation Ireland Pride of Place competition. Judges on the day were Owen O’Connor, retired Chief Executive of Down District Council in Northern Ireland, and John Quinlivan, retired County Manager of Louth County Council. After brief introductions, Pat Deery gave a 20 minute presentation about the area and the people, and this was followed by a question and answer session led by the 2 judges. Afterwards, the visitors were accompanied by our visit usher Seamus McElwain on a brief tour of the many stands in the main  hall and 3 rooms in the community centre. No one could fail to be impressed with the outstanding displays of each club and community organisation. Then it was off by pony and trap to visit the Tydavnet cemeteries, the allotments, the chapel, school, and the wildlife garden. A bus tour followed, with a visit of Cornagilta school where the “Hidden Heritage” project was on display. Here the group was entertained by “The mountain lark” traditional music group and local singer MaryAnn McKenna, Drumcoobrady. On their return to the community centre, everyone was entertained by local musicians from the Blackwater school of music, a wonderful rendition of Pie Jesu by local soprano Helen Keenan, Drumcoowoods, a hilarious novelty act from Tydavnet Drama troupe, sean nos singer Caitriona Sherlock, a tang soo do demonstration from the Nar sisters from Tonyclea, and “The Community Song” from the Faith and Light group in the area ended a wonderful morning of celebration. A lovely meal served by the staff of the Sliabh Beagh hotel ended what was a great morning of community and pride. Thanks to everyone who were part of the preparation and staging of our entry into the Pride of Place competition – it was wonderful to be part of this great project.  If community spirit could be sold, we’d be millionaires!! (Click on photos to enlarge)