Community awards were special night

LAST Wednesday night was a very special occasion when the inaugural Louth Public Participation Network Awards were presented in the splendidly appointed Bellingham Castle.

The awards were devised to recognise the voluntary work and dedication of volunteers across the community and voluntary sector in the county and this newspaper and our sister newspaper, the Drogheda Independent were de- lighted to play a small part in the event as media sponsors.

The guest speaker on the night was former Mountjoy Governor John Lonegran who is an exceptional public speaker and his words really struck at chord with the audience.

However the focal point of the night was the awards themselves which recognised many groups throughout the county, indeed many of the recipients were reluctant attendees as they are involved in their respective groups for the honour or glory but because they want to give something of themselves for their community.

Nonetheless however shy some of the recipients were in accepting their award the night has its place and it only proper that we as a community recognise and honour people who give of themselves for others.

Today’s world is a busy place, people are accused of being selfish and not interested in others, however a night like last Wednesday reminds us that not everyone is so minded.

There are hundreds of people throughout Louth who give of themselves and if you think that you too could give an hour or two of your week to similar groups, why not visit www. louthppn.ie and find out more.