Proud moment as two Laois towns receive TidyTowns awards

Two Laois towns have formally received their 2022 national TidyTowns awards, with judging already well underway in the 2023 competition.

Abbeyleix was the big winner last year, and representatives travelled to the county who won the top award, Meath. 

The 2022 SuperValu TidyTowns awards for the Midlands & East region were presented on Wednesday, June 28, at a prize-giving ceremony at St Loman’s GAA Clubhouse in Trim. 

Each of the winners were presented with their awards by Councillor Paul McCabe, Leas Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council and Anthony Robinson, SuperValu Regional Manager who are this year celebrating their 32nd year of partnership and sponsorship of the competition.

Mary White, Abbeyleix Tidytowns, accepted the the Gold medal for County Laois in the 2022 Supervalu Tidytowns Competition, from Cllr McCabe, Mr Robinson.

Cllr John Joe Fennelly, Abbeyleix Tidytowns accepted the prize of being Laois, County winner on behalf of the group.

Caroline Whitelegg, Portarlington Tidytowns accepted the Endeavour award in the 2022 Supervalu Tidytowns competition.

First round judging of the 2023 SuperValu TidyTowns has already begun across Ireland this June, with no forewarning of when judges might call to the many towns and villages around Laois taking part. 

There are high hopes for Abbeyleix who won Ireland's Tidiest Small Town in 2021, just pipped at the post by one point for the overall title of Ireland's Tidiest Town.

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The local committee have urged all residents and businesses to do their best this year.

"Please help tidy towns by maintaining your property / business or estate with painting, cleaning, weeding (no spraying), litter picking, sweeping, bin dog poo, bin your butts, planting (pollinator friendly), litter picks, helping neighbours".