North Longford community of Aughnacliffe honoured at Pride of Place Awards

Aughnacliffe village was honoured at the annual Pride of Place community awards on Friday evening in Armagh City (November 10).

Judges awarded Aughnacliffe the prize for the ‘Population 500-1500’ category, praising the level of community engagement. “The judges were immediately struck by the intergenerational welcome they received on arrival at the Community Centre and by a promotional video showing this village in its best light. “There are 25 committees, clubs and groups, all working together to enhance and preserve the village's beauty, heritage and overall quality of life.  The jewel in the crown of projects completed is undoubtedly the recent development of a wonderful heritage walking trail''.

Elsewhere, EDIC / REVAMP Longford and Newtownforbes Biodiversity & Nature Walk were nominated but left without prizes. The awards, hosted by UTV’s Pamela Ballentine, took place in in front of 400 community volunteers from across the island. The awards were delivered in partnership with Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council. Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 21 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development. 

It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland. President Michael D. Higgins, Joint Patron of Co-operation Ireland, said the awards played an important role. “The Pride of Place awards are a most important initiative, reminding us that creating societies that are ethical and inclusive is a task for all of our citizens, of all ages and circumstances.”