The enormous community endeavour that prevails within the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns Group was recognised on the national stage when the village was named winner of the ‘300 – 1,000 Population’ category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards on Friday night.

Nominated by Galway County Council to represent the county in the all-island competition, the south Galway village was selected for its exemplary community development efforts.

The Clarinbridge Tidy Towns Group was represented at the awards ceremony by Ronan Kavanagh and Mary Daly.

Mary Daly said they were ‘absolutely thrilled and deeply’ honoured that Clarinbridge has been named overall winner of its category, which, she said, was a true testament to everyone in the village.

“From the Cowpark and Kilcornan Trails to Market Day and Halloween on the Green, every initiative reflects the spirit of collaboration and pride that defines Clarinbridge,” she said.

“This award belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a paintbrush, planted a flower, or simply anyone who volunteered or shared our journey,” added Ronan Kavanagh.

Established in 1979, the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group has played a central role in enhancing the village’s physical and social environment, with projects involving the maintenance of local landmarks such as the Green, Parish Hall, Kilcornan Estate, and Cowpark.

The village also promotes heritage and environmental care through the development of walking trails and green spaces.

Judges commended Clarinbridge’s partnerships with organisations including the Clarinbridge Men’s Shed and SCCUL Sanctuary, as well as its annual events such as Clarinbridge Market Day and Halloween on the Green.

The Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden also represented Galway County in this year’s competition, competing in the ‘Community Wellbeing’ category.

Although not a category winner, the group was recognised for its innovative approach to supporting male family carers and promoting health and wellbeing in the Connemara region.

The two nominated County Galway projects were visited by IPB Pride of Place judges in September when group representatives made formal presentations before hosting tours that highlighted the elements of the community and volunteer efforts of which they are most proud.

Also on the night, Galway Sea Scouts took runner up spot in the Community Youth Initiative category, losing out to the Belfast based SHE Project.

Pictured at the 2025 IBP Pride of Place ceremony at the Strand Hotel in Limerick (left to right) Helen McGrath (Galway County Council); Ronan Kavanagh (Clarinbridge Tidy Towns); Cllr David Collins (Cathaoirleach); Mary Daly (Clarinbridge Tidy Towns); Liam Conneally (CE, GCC); Theresa Donohue (GCCl); and Michael Owens (Director of Services, GCCl).