Listowel crowned Tidy Towns winners in culmination of 25 years’ effort
IT’S a year they will never forget. But, the work wasn’t all done in one year; it is the accumulative and consistent work over the last 25 years.
“Each year, we could see the momentum building. I remember around 12 years ago, I went into the schools and chatted to the children about sustainability and waste management. Now, those children have grown up and are the pillars of our Tidy Town community,” PRO of Listowel Tidy Towns, Jimmy Moloney said.
Over the years, Listowel has scratched the surface of getting the top title. They won gold medals in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. In 2015 and 2016, they won Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town. And now, they are Ireland’s Tidiest Town 2018.
“We have 25 core committee members but there are so many other key players. We have two committee members that have been part of it since the beginning; Mary Hanlon and Eileen Nolan. They bring great wisdom and experience; they have never given up,” Jimmy continued.
“The community spirit is palpable in Listowel. At the homecoming, it was a celebration for every single person that was there, they have all contributed in some way.
“We have voluntary groups that help, the local businesses and the council do incredible work, the schools, and CE and RSS workers. Winning this was cause of many people.”