Limerick community reflects on stellar win in Pride of Place competition

Pat Murphy, Geraldine Rice, Geraldine Wallace, Tanya Dunworth, Pat Ryan and Sean McIlfatrick with their IPB Pride of Place award | PICTURE: Adrian Butler

placeholder image — Pat Murphy, Geraldine Rice, Geraldine Wallace, Tanya Dunworth, Pat Ryan and Sean McIlfatrick with their IPB Pride of Place award | PICTURE: Adrian Butler

Thomondgate Residents Association win Pride of Place on golden anniversary

A RESIDENTS’ group has had 50 reasons to celebrate as they reflect on winning a maiden Pride of Place award on their golden anniversary.

The Thomondgate Residents’ Association scooped the IPB-sponsored prize at a ceremony in the Strand Hotel.

Although the title was given before Christmas, the group have not had cause to properly commemorate the award, following the sad passing of one of their number.

John Noel Ryan, of Canon Breen Park, was described as a “very passionate community man”.

One of his neighbours Pat Murphy said: “He always held Thomondgate close to his heart. He had a great sense of humour. But you know where you stood with him! There was no kidding around!”

The residents’ association was founded in 1975, but Pat believes it is only in recent years they have been able to compete for a Pride of Place award.

Judges spent three hours in Thomondgate, firstly taking in a guided tour of the area.

Following this, they received a presentation in St Munchin’s Community Centre highlighting the work the association has done.

Sean McIlfatrick of the group believes it was one project - featured by the Leader last year - that helped the group secure the award.

This was the transformation of two fields into a space for people to reflect on loved ones they’ve lost.