Laois village shows off 'fantastic spirit' for Pride of Place judges
Clough Village is representing Laois in the national Pride of Place competition
A Laois village welcomed judges from the Pride of Place competition on Friday, July 24.
Clough Village was selected to represent Laois in the Population 0-300 category of the IPB Pride of Place competition this year.
Local volunteers, community groups, organisations and residents gathered on Friday to welcome the competition judges, Tom Dowling and Liam Hannaway, to the village.
The visit began with an engaging presentation at Clough Primary School by Olga Hyland, Anne Bergin, Pat Brennan and Niall Bergin. The presentation detailed Clough’s guiding principles - its past, people, place and progress. The presenters also spoke about the village’s growth and the fundraising undertaken to ensure continued progress.
After the presentation, the judges were taken on a walking tour around the village which included the location for the new community hall and playground, the parish hall, Clough graveyard and a meet and greet with residents.
The judges were taken by horse and carriage to Clough Church where they were entertained by the local choir before they met Peggy Bergin, Clough’s oldest resident. They also visited the High Nellies at the High Nelly Cottage, Clough Ballacolla GAA grounds, the impressive Bottle Cap Mosaic, and then they finished up with some food at the Parish Hall.
Contributors throughout the tour included residents and members of the Clough Pride of Place Organising Committee, Laois County Councillor John King, Clough Tidy Towns, Fr Canon Noel Maher and members of Clough Ballacolla GAA club.
Commending the work put in by the local community in preparation for the visit, Olga Hyland, member of the Clough Pride of Place Organising Committee, said: “The entire village of Clough has worked together to make Friday possible. From the presentation, to preparing food, planting flowers or painting walls, so many people have given their time to show the judges the fantastic spirit in Clough.
“Everyone has represented Laois with pride and dedication, and we hope the judges enjoyed their day.”
Speaking after the presentation, judges Tom Dowling and Liam Hannaway commended the Clough community.
Tom Dowling said: “Thanks to everyone for being here and for a fantastic presentation. You are well able to tell a good story - a positive story. You told the story of what Pride of Place is all about - recognising what you have, how you look after every single person in the community and how privileged you are to look after everyone.”
Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, also praised the community for their efforts.
“Congratulations to Clough Village firstly for the achievement of being chosen to represent our county in this prestigious competition. Congratulations also on the commitment and engagement shown from all parts of the community to come together and create a fantastic itinerary to show the judges all that Clough has to offer,” Cllr Fitzgerald said.
Chief Executive of Laois County Council, Michael Rainey, added: “Congratulations to everyone in Clough for a wonderful day. The Pride of Place Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the community spirit and unique character that make our towns and villages so special.
“Clough has showcased itself with enthusiasm and dedication and Laois County Council is delighted to nominate the village for this prestigious national award. We wish them the very best of luck in the competition.”
Also representing Laois in the national competition are Portlaoise Tidy Towns in the Climate Action and Biodiversity category. The Portlaoise Tidy Towns group welcomed the judges earlier this month.