Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim celebrates victory as 2025 Tidy Towns winner
Carrick-on-Shannon, located in County Leitrim, achieved a significant milestone by being named the overall winner of the 2025 SuperValu TidyTowns Competition. The award ceremony was held at Croke Park, hosted by RTÉ sports broadcaster Marty Morrissey, with Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary presenting awards to various winners.
Ceremony Highlights
More than 600 volunteers from across Ireland gathered for the event. John Gaffey, chairman of the Carrick-on-Shannon committee, emphasized the community spirit, mentioning the valuable contribution of Ukrainian volunteers. He noted that the town had been participating in the competition for over 40 years, making a concerted effort to maintain its charm.
Awards Distribution
Carrick-on-Shannon was recognized not only as the tidiest overall town but also received the title of Ireland’s tidiest small town. Recognitions were given in several categories:
- Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town: Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim
- Ireland’s Tidiest Village: Rosscarbery, Co Cork
- Ireland’s Tidiest Large Town: Dalkey, Co Dublin
- Gaeltacht Award: Carraig Airt, Co Donegal
- Young Persons in TidyTowns Award: Corofin, Co Clare
- Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre: Tralee, Co Kerry
Funding and Participation
During the ceremony, Minister Calleary announced an additional funding package of €1.5 million for Tidy Towns groups in 2025. Groups participating in this year’s competition, as well as previous years, can apply for grants ranging from €1,000 to €4,000.
This year’s competition saw a record participation, with a total of 929 towns entering—the highest number ever. Approximately 30,000 volunteers contributed to the projects, bringing an estimated economic value of €35 million.
Recognition of Volunteers
Luke Hanlon, managing director of SuperValu, praised the dedication of the volunteers, asserting that their efforts create lasting legacies. Minister Calleary acknowledged two exceptional volunteers, Hugh Kelly and Michael Tuohy, who have been committed to volunteering since 1967, embodying pride and responsibility in their community.
Conclusion
The 2025 SuperValu TidyTowns Competition not only highlights the successes of Carrick-on-Shannon but also showcases the collective efforts of volunteers nationwide in making their communities more vibrant and inviting.
