Clarinbridge Shines as Winner at 2025 Pride of Place Awards

Clarinbridge has emerged as the winner of the ‘300 – 1,000 Population’ category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards, celebrated this week in a ceremony recognizing community excellence across Ireland. Nominated by Galway County Council, the south Galway village was chosen for its outstanding community development initiatives, reflecting a strong spirit of volunteerism and civic engagement.

The Pride of Place Awards, now in their 23rd year, are organized by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance. This program celebrates voluntary groups dedicated to enhancing their local areas through collaborative efforts. Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, expressed pride in Clarinbridge’s achievement, stating, “Clarinbridge’s Pride of Place win is a fantastic endorsement of the dedication and creativity shown by its residents.”

Clarinbridge has a rich history of community engagement, largely driven by the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group, established in 1979. This organization has been instrumental in enhancing both the physical and social environment of the village. Their efforts include maintaining key local landmarks such as The Green, Parish Hall, Kilcornan Estate, and Cowpark. Furthermore, Clarinbridge promotes its heritage and environmental sustainability through the development of walking trails and green spaces.

Judges praised the village for its effective partnerships with local organizations such as the Clarinbridge Men’s Shed and SCCUL Sanctuary. Annual events like Clarinbridge Market Day and Halloween on the Green were highlighted as examples of community spirit and engagement.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, remarked on the significance of this achievement: “Clarinbridge’s success is a proud moment for County Galway and a testament to the strength of community spirit in our towns and villages.” He extended his congratulations to all involved, including the Marconi Men’s Shed in Clifden, which was also nominated in the competition in the ‘Community Wellbeing’ category. Although not a category winner, the shed was recognized for its innovative initiatives supporting male family carers and promoting health and wellbeing in the Connemara region.

At the awards ceremony, representatives from the Clarinbridge Tidy Towns group, including Ronan Kavanagh and Mary Daly, expressed their gratitude for the recognition. Ms. Daly stated, “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured that Clarinbridge has been named overall winner of its category, which is a true testament to everyone in our village.” Mr. Kavanagh added, “This award belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a paintbrush, planted a flower, or simply anyone who volunteered or shared our journey.”

The two nominated projects from County Galway were assessed by IPB Pride of Place judges in September. During this visit, group representatives made presentations and conducted tours to showcase their community efforts. Michael Owens, Director of Services at Galway County Council, noted, “Galway’s successful participation in Pride of Place down through the years highlights the scale and breadth of activity taking place in communities across the county.”

The recent win adds to Galway’s commendable history in the Pride of Place competition. Last year, the villages of Kinvara and Williamstown were recognized as runners-up in their respective categories, while in 2023, Creggs Rural Development Group won the Climate Action and Biodiversity category.

Clarinbridge’s achievement serves not only as a recognition of its community spirit but also as an inspiration for other towns and villages aiming for similar recognition in the future.