Banagher man honoured for work in local community

George Smith from Banagher has been chosen as the Vintners" Federation of Ireland Good Neighbour of the Year 2008. George was nominated for his outstanding contribution to the local community over many years through his involvement in a variety of local organisations and initiatives. A special awards ceremony was held this week in his nominating pub, The Corner House in Banagher, at which he was presented with a specially commissioned trophy, a cheque for €3,000 to donate to a local charity of his choice as well as a well-earned €2,000 holiday voucher. 'I"m delighted to have won. It was such a surprise and a great honour to be nominated,' said George when he received his award. George has decided to divide his cheque three ways between the Banagher St Vincent de Paul branch, Brother Brian Johnston, who carries out missionary work in Kenya, and Sr Helen Ryder who carries out missionary work in Haiti. George"s work in the community involved setting up field sports in the school as well as the local Boy Scouts troop. He also set up water safety, canoe and swim courses which gave local people a greater appreciation of the river they live on. He"s also involved in the Banagher Tidy Towns committee, the Rural Transport Project and the Old Folks Committee. 'George has given a tremendous amount to Banagher. We are honoured to have him in our community, as a customer but most of all as our friend,' said Sean Corrigan, proprietor of The Corner House. Local councillor Percy Clendennen also praised George and the good work he"s done. The VFI Good Neighbour Award, which is supported by Heineken, is now in its third year and runs in all counties outside of Dublin. The aim is to recognise the unsung heroes who make a difference to the life of a friend or neighbour in their local community.