‘‘We were very impressed at the excellent progress of Community Development in Cranmore. The community are extremely fortunate to have a wonderful group of volunteers and staff working for them. We compliment Sligo County Council and other agencies for the support they give to the community’’. These were the initial comments from the IPB Pride of Place 2014 National Awards Judges on a recent visit to Cranmore.
Sligo County Council put forward Cranmore Estate as their entry into the Estate category. The Judges visit took place on Tuesday the 22nd July giving a great buzz to the area. Cranmore Community Co-operative were the lead out on the event which showcased the work and achievements that have taken place on the Cranmore Estate over the last number of years.
Judges and attendees were treated to a wonderfully told presentation of the great achievements within the community of Cranmore over the last few years, detailing the vast volume of work undertaken by different people, groups and organisations. Judges Donal Connolly and William Beattie took part in a walkabout of the estate which included a visit to the Cranmore Boxing Club to view a boxing demonstration by Jordan and Thomas Meyers of Inisfree Boxing Club who are both National Champions with Jordan also currently a European Champion. The next stopover was made to local residents Brian and Angela Curtains home to view their award winning garden. A visit was also paid to Abbeyquarter Community Centre to see exhibitions of work from the Women’s Group and Friendship Group. The local Men’s Group similarly showcased the many projects they have undertaken in their newly acquired community workshop on the Cranmore Estate. The event was capped off with a wonderful showcase of talent including a demonstration of rebounding by some local residents and their instructor Mairead Keane and some music and song by members of Youth City led by Nike Ogun.
Cathaoirleach Joe Queenan welcomed the Judges Donal Connolly and William Beattie to Cranmore. The Chairperson of the Co-Op Sue Mahon gave the opening address for the PowerPoint presentation. Helen O’Hara the Co-Ops Community Development Officer brought the Judges along on a wonderfully told story in the presentation.
Paula Gorman Manager of the Springboard Resource House stated that even though she have worked on the estate for many years she was not aware of all the fabulous work that goes on. The showcase of work was a resounding success and a huge celebration of the achievements of the community as a whole.
Maureen Durcan Project Co-Ordinator of the Co-Op said that “It was a wonderful example of what can be achieved when a community takes pride in its place and works together. It’s a credit to all involved.”
Ann Marie Snee Vice Chairperson of the Cranmore Co-Op said that “A fabulous showcase of all the brilliant work of the services in the area.”
Pride of Place is an annual all-Ireland competition that acknowledges the work that communities are doing all over the island of Ireland. Tom Dowling Chairman and founder of the Pride of Place initiative has been the driving force behind the competition since it started in 2003. This competition has become one of the most prestigious awards to win on the island of Ireland. Co-operation Ireland is associated through its Local Authority Programme since the start. And IPB are the title sponsors of the event.
Winners will be announced in October so fingers crossed
Check out some of the Pictures taken on the day below….
