Abbeyshrule prepares for Presidential visit

Ireland’s Tidiest Village 2012, Abbeyshrule, is getting ready this week for a visit by the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins.

On Saturday, June 22, the Co Longford village will begin the celebrations with music by local artists at 2pm. President Higgins is due to arrive at approximately 3pm, when he will be greeted by Abbeyshrule Tidy Villages Committee members, local residents, and delegates from Longford County Council and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government.

Speaking about the visit Mr Tim Caffrey, County Manager, Longford County Council stated; “The community of Abbeyshrule have worked extremely hard for many years and are very deserving of their achievement in the national TidyTowns Competition. The Council is delighted that their efforts have been recognised and the visit of the President is a great honour for everyone involved.”

Abbeyshrule scored an incredible 312 out of 400 points in last year’s National SuperValu TidyTowns Competition, and during his visit, the President will unveil a plaque to celebrate the village’s achievement. Abbeyshrule walked away with five awards in last year’s competition, including the National Award, a Gold Medal Award for the best in their category and a Best in County award.

Philip Butler, Chairman, Abbeyshrule Tidy Villages Committee says; “I am delighted for the people of Abbeyshrule to be honoured with this Presidential visit. It was through the hard work and dedication of the community that we achieved the National Award last year. The residents, local clubs, businesses and schools have really pulled together as a community and have made a bigger effort this year. It’s with a great sense of pride that we welcome the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins to Abbeyshrule.”