Deserved award for the men behind Old Abbey
THE Drogheda Tidy Towns Committee recently highlighted the contribution of two of its local volunteers, Eugene Brannigan and John Bannon for the amazing work which they have put into the redevelopment of the Old Abbey.
The Old Abbey is Drogheda’s oldest monastic site and was founded in 1206 A.D. The most recognisable remaining structure is the distinctive central belfry tower. Part of the site has been closed off in recent years and the remaining area was in need of attention.
Spurred on by the recent upsurge in community spirit in Drogheda, Eugene and John have spent hundreds of hours working tirelessly to ensure that this site is once again open to visitors and our residents. Their amazing work came to attention of the Drogheda Tidy Towns Committee who backed their efforts and put them in contact with Louth County Council who have contributed by providing planters and improving the public lighting at the site.
An award for “Outstanding Contribution to Drogheda’s Heritage” has deservedly awarded to John Bannon and Eugene Brannigan for their work at the Old Abbey. The award was made by Cllr. Kevin Callan on behalf of the Drogheda Tidy Towns Committee who included this project as part of their National Tidy Towns application which recently won a Gold Medal.
Cllr Callan who chairs the committee said that, “John and Eugene have being doing fantastic work and restoring a medieval area of the town that has been largely forgotten. We are now also working on other historic sections of the town including the Magdelene Tower Courtyard. This activity is leading to other groups getting involved and taking on projects and clean ups in other areas. We are always looking to work with and support anyone in their area of town to improve Drogheda. St Marys Abbey and the lane are now receiving visitors, school groups and tourists and this is just fantastic to see as the medieval history of the town has been greatly promoted by both John and Eugene”.
It is also hoped to use the Old Abbey as part of next years’ Fleadh programme and great credit must go to Eugene and John for their outstanding contribution to Drogheda’s Heritage.