Ballylanders local receives Garda Youth Award
Ballylanders local Nikki Hayes was honoured recently at the Limerick Garda Youth Awards.
The 8th Annual Limerick Garda Youth Awards took place at the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare on Wednesday, March 23.
Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche of the Limerick Garda Division hosted a gala dinner for the 2021 winners where Scoil Pól, Kilfinane, student Nikki Hayes was announced as winner amongst five other individual awardees and two group awardees.
Speaking at the ceremony Chief Superintendent Roche stated that tonight was recognition of all the wonderful achievements of the young people receiving awards. They were a credit to their family, their community and themselves.
Nikki has overcome a number of personal health issues throughout her life. She has Dwarfism and resulting health difficulties which have given her many struggles.
Despite these struggles, Nikki remains an extremely positive teenager and never complains or looks for sympathy, instead, seeking solutions.
Through her massive determination, Nikki takes part in everything from football to all school classes and nothing deters her from doing so. She leads by example and inspires others while maintaining her drive and a never say ‘not possible’ approach to life.
Other recipients on the night were Maria Campbell of Raheen, Clodagh Bennett of Rosbrien, Kian Hedderman of Keyes Park, Aimee Walsh of Caherconlish, Jack Clifford of Kilmallock, Foróige Abbeyfeale – Foróige Newcastlewest, and Be Well Youth Advisory Panel of the Northside Youth Space in Ballynanty.
Master of ceremonies for the night was Mr Seamus Hennessey and also in attendance were Councillor Stephen Keary and Mr Jim Garvey of Garvey’s Group who are the main sponsors of the event.