At a time when community spirit and volunteerism are thought to be in serious decline, it was doubly encouraging to attend the recent Mayo County Council Cathaoirleach Awards at Breaffy House Hotel. Close to three hundred community activists had gathered for the ceremony held to celebrate and reward the efforts of individuals and community groups who seek to make their localities, and county, a better place to live.

Presided over by Cathaoirleach, Cllr John O'Hara, the awards ceremony covered seventeen different categories, the finalists for which had been recommended by their communities over the previous four months. In the words of Cllr O'Hara, the awards shine a light on the remarkable work being carried out across Mayo and beyond - work that enriches lives, fosters connections, and ensures that the county remains a beacon of warmth and opportunity.

The awards night itself may be a logistical challenge, but the organising team, under the direction of Martina Hughes, head of Corporate Development and Communication, are old hands at keeping things moving smoothly. In Angelina Nugent, they had a polished........

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