Offaly group honoured at all-Ireland community awards

BALLYBOY Community Development was honoured at the annual Pride of Place community awards on Friday evening in Armagh City.
The group came runner up in the ‘Population - 1500-4000’ category, losing out to Carndonagh in County Donegal.
Ballyboy was one of three Offaly projects to receive nominations for the awards, but Bracknagh Community Association and Tullamore Tidy Towns were to leave Armagh empty handed.
The awards, hosted by UTV’s Pamela Ballentine, took place in in front of 400 community volunteers from across the island. The awards were delivered in partnership with Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council.
Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 21 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.”
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon, Alderman Margaret Tinsley, said, “We were delighted to host this year awards to celebrate and recognise the wonderful work voluntary people and organisations make to community life. Congratulations to all award winners, and thank you to everyone who played their part in organising this fantastic event.”
Pride of Place founder and Chairman Tom Dowling said, “I am very proud after 21 glorious years of celebrating so many wonderful Pride of Place communities to be at another Gala Awards night, excellently hosted by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
“All our communities recognise the importance of their place and people and are constantly seeking to make it better. These awards are now even more important as communities face ever increasing challenges and are responding to them with energy, positivity, and commitment. The communities deserve their well-earned recognition and all participants are truly winners.”
Sir Julian King, Chairman of Co-operation Ireland said, "Co-operation Ireland has no other programme that embodies the charity's ethos better than Pride of Place.
John Hogan, Chairman, IPB Insurance said. “Volunteerism is a cornerstone of community resilience and exemplifies the very spirit of mutual support and care that these Awards have championed throughout our longstanding partnership.
“By supporting these awards, we not only celebrate the remarkable individuals and groups who go above and beyond for their communities but also aim to inspire others to join in this noble pursuit of creating better, more liveable places for all.”