Judgesvisit forEnterprise TownAwards

A PANEL of judges came to County Wicklow last week as part of the Bank of Ireland National Enterprise Town Awards.

Bray was one of the towns selected by Wicklow County Council to represent the county, along with Arklow, Wicklow and Roundwood.

Judges were in Bray and Arklow on Tuesday, and Roundwood and Wicklow on Wednesday.

The National Enterprise Town awards, run by Bank of Ireland, are in their third year and aim to promote enterprise by bringing business and community groups together in towns and villages across Ireland, to showcase the spirit of enterprise in their local area.

Representatives from the local authority, the business sector and community in Bray made a presentation at the Mermaid last Tuesday, highlighting how business and community groups are working together with the Municipal District and State agencies to contribute to the overall enterprising nature of the town.

The judges were also taken on a whistle-stop tour of the town with visits to Oriflame Research and Development Centre, Little Bray Community Centre, River Dargle Flood Protection, Florentine Shopping Centre construction site and the Cowfish restaurant.

Cllr. Pat Vance, Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District, said: ‘I am delighted that Bray has been nominated for these awards. It is really an excellent opportunity to be able to showcase our thriving town and demonstrate how our collaborative approach with the local authority, business and the wider community ensures its success.’

Ninety towns and villages will be judged in this year’s awards. There is a total prize fund of €157,000 with the overall winner receiving a cash prize totalling €33,000. The winners will be announced at a gala awards ceremony taking place at The Lyrath Hotel, Kilkenny on November 28.