West Cork sweeps the boards at Mayor's community awards

WEST Cork took the top two awards at the fifth Cork County Mayor’s Community Awards Ceremony last week. 

A total of 11 awards were made on the night over 36 nominations.  

An incredible variety of community groups and individuals from across Cork County attended the evening’s celebration. 

Robert Wilmot form Bandon received the Overall Individual Award. Robert is a member, and founder of many voluntary organisations. 

‘His contribution to these clubs supports an important social outlet for many people, particularly those to live alone,’ said the Mayor.

The Overall Community and Voluntary Group Award was made to Cancer Connect.  Nominated by Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy, Cancer Connect offers a free and flexible transport service to Cork hospitals from West Cork for people receiving radiotherapy, chemotherapy and related treatments.  

Cancer Connect has recorded 18,600 journeys and has over 250 volunteers registered. It are also planning on extending its services to include a North Cork route.

‘We are delighted to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the many voluntary drivers and people who fundraise and support Cancer Connect,’ said co-ordinator Helen O’Driscoll, at the event.

Another major winner on the night – in the Group category – was Leap’s Scarecrow Festival, which has now grown into one of the most eagerly anticipated festivals in West Cork, taking place each Hallowe’en. 

It is a truly community event with locals – and people from further afield – encouraged to enter their scarecrows in the competition to find the best creation. 

It attracts thousands of curious visitors to the West Cork village every year.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Séamus McGrath said he would like to see even more nominations for the Mayors Awards next year. 

‘I would like to see the ethos of volunteerism go forward and spread, to benefit each other and for the benefits to ourselves – any litter that is picked, any time donated, any thought shared, all making our communities stronger and creating great places to live happily.  And where someone takes that first step, another will follow.  

‘That is where we will find strength in our communities,’ he added.