IPB Pride of Place 2023
The IPB Pride of Place Awards 2023 competition acknowledges the work being done every day by communities all over the island of Ireland. It is organised by Co-Operation Ireland.
The competition is open to all local community groups, who may be nominated by their local authority. Nominated groups demonstrate the pride they have in their place by presenting community activities and culture in a tour of the area for the competition judges. The community should also show the partnership there is with their local authorities and all sections of the local community.
IPB Pride of Place Awards 2023
The IPB Pride of Place Awards 2023 took place on Friday, 10 November 2023.
Aughnacliffee: Winner in the 500-1,000 Population category
Aughnacliffe is a small rural community in north Longford with a population of 650 people. The community centre has been the heart of the parish since 1985. Previously a school, it now provides a local social network of services, including educational, fitness and sports classes, dancing and concerts. Older people in the community also connect with one another each week through the Dolmen Club. Lough Leebeen is popular for fishing. There is also a safe and scenic walk, an exercise circuit, a children's playground and a fairy garden. The 'heritage trail' is a fantastic new attraction taking walkers on a tour of historical areas including an ancient neolithic dolmen. The village also has a vibrant GAA club, a playschool with an afterschool programme and a local medical centre.
Two other groups were also nominated by Longford County Council. They were:
Newtownforbes Biodiversity Trail and Nature Walk in the Climate Action - Biodiversity category
The Newtownforbes Biodiversity Trail and Nature Walk is proving to be a popular amenity with local people. Volunteers, landowners and Longford County Council came together to create this accessible space for walking, running and cycling. It is a place where wildlife can flourish also, including native Irish beehives.
EDIC and REVAMP in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category
EDIC (Employment, Development and Information Centre) and REVAMP provide information, training and employment opportunities with a person-centred approach. As part of this, REVAMP training has trained 285 people, including in the upcycling of household furniture and other items, diverting these items from landfills and providing low-cost goods to local customers.