The Shamrock Lodge Hotel provided the backdrop for the annual award presentations which acknowledge the contribution of local groups and organisations to the St. Patrick’s Day parade, encompassing the strong community spirit prevalent during this national feast day event through the streets of Athlone.
Accolades were awarded in various categories during the presentation ceremony, with Na Fianna kickboxing and fitness centre, located in Gentex, being chosen as the overall winner for their parade entry and display by the committee.
Athlone Gymnastics claimed the best sporting entry award, while An Post achieved the best commercial entry accolade.
New Horizon, the refugee and asylum seeker support group achieved the best voluntary group award with the best youth group prize awarded to Athlone Community College traditional group.
Florists, Beforal, achieved premier status in the window display category, with Nell’s Closet and A Partnership with Africa claiming the runners up positions.
Finally, in the various visual art categories, Jeanette Curran (drawing ), Non Waters (painting ), Eithne Gallagher (creative writing ) and Helen Maloney (photography ) were all rewarded for their respective entries.
