LILY IS COMMUNITY GAMES QUEEN V!
SPECIAL CELEBRATION FOR LADY WHO HAS SPENT 46 YEARS VOLUNTEERING
PAST and present members of Wicklow Community Games came together in the Powerscourt Arms Hotel last week to honour Lily Kavanagh for a life-time of service.
2017 is the Community Games jubilee year and, to mark the occasion, a Golden Volunteer from each county was selected. Not only was Lily picked as Wicklow’s Golden Volunteer, she was also voted by the pubic as the overall volunteer of the year for all of Ireland.
Wicklow County Board organised a party in recognition of Lily’s dedication to the games having been one of four people who started the games 46 years ago. She is still actively involved and holds the position of Life President.
Chairman Michael Kenny said: ‘ This is not a day for speeches but a celebration of the life of Lily Kavanagh who has dedicated her time to the children and the good of Community Games.’
On behalf of the county board, Michael presented Lily with a beautiful memory book of pictures. Deputy Pat Casey presented her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, while Health Minister, Simon Harris took time out from his busy schedule to pass on his congratulations to Lily in person.
Guests were reminded on years gone by thanks to a memory board decorated with old photographs, press clippings and PRO books from different eras.
Lily’s 90th birthday takes place on October 29 so she also received a birthday cake along with a message book.
Lily said she was truly honoured to see many old friends present especially James O’Reilly of Arklow, who has been battling illness, and his wife Sadie, who have given a lifetime to Community Games.
Phyllis Farrell, the county PRO, said she was delighted to be part of this special day and wanted to thank the Kavanagh family along with members of Wicklow County Board, Michael Kenny, Mary Brett Kelly, Fiona Shannon, Margret Reid, Breda Reid, Maura Reid and Ellen Nolan, who all helped organise the day.