Hall of Fame award shortlist – 3

NEEDING little introduction, John Sexton, Courtmacsherry, is known far and wide throughout West Cork, and beyond, for his many achievements and involvements in farming and community organisations. A natural leader, communicator, and organiser – his talents have benefited many groups and to list them all would take pages. Being awarded the prestigious Paddy Fitzgerald Memorial Award in 2010 for his exceptional contribution to both the IFA and community goes some way to illustrating the contribution he has made over the decades and the high regard he is held in among his peers. The eldest of six children, John and his wife Betty ran an extensive tillage and dairy operation and reared a family of seven. Among is key achievements include setting up a branch of Macra na Feirme in Courtmacsherry and going on to hold key positions within both the Carbery region of Macra in the 1960s along with being a member of the national council of Macra na Feirme. He continued in leadership roles with the IFA and the Beet Growers Association. Ploughing is another of his great passions and he has been a local notes and farming correspondent for The Southern Star since 1958 and contributes to many other publications, both local and national.

•    The winner of the Hall of Fame award, sponsored by Denis McSweeney & Son Ltd, Enniskeane, will be announced at The Southern Star and Celtic Ross Hotel West Cork Farming Awards presentation at 12pm on Sunday, September 24th, at the Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery.