Final tranche of Offaly Person of the Year/Unsung Hero awards nominees revealed
THE final 13 nominees for the the 2022 Offaly Perosn of the Year award and the Unsung Hero of Offaly award 2022 have been announced.
A total of 26 individuals and organisations from across the county have been nominated for the prestigious awards.
The first tranche of 13 nominees were revealed last week.
This year's awards ceremony, which is organised by a sub-committee of the Offaly Association (Dublin), will be held in the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore on Saturday, April 15 next.
The winners of the two awards will be announced in early March while tickets, priced at €45, will also be available in the coming weeks for the gala occasion.
Chairperson of the organising sub-committee Ms Jennifer Guinan said the selection committee is delighted with the calibre of the 26 nominees who reflect Offaly life in all its facets.
FINAL 13 NOMINEES
The Murphy family, Blueball - In remembrance of their daughter Ashling who was tragically murdered in January 2022 and the resilience they have shown in the face of personal tragedy.
Shane Loughlin, Edenderry - For his work in reviving the Edenderry St Patrick's Day Parade, the organising of fundraising tractor tuns for charity, the visit of Santa and Mrs Claus to all the estates in Edenderry prior to the Christmas and many other good causes.
Noel Tynan, Coolderry - For his contribution to the hospitality sector in Dublin and his work with Offaly natives resident in the capital
Jude Feehan - For his long and dedicated service to Community Games in Offaly and nationally.
Paddy Hogan, Tullamore and New York - For his work on behalf of the Offaly Association in New York and Offaly people resident there.
Seamus Boland, the Island - For his tireless work in promoting rural communities.
Ann Byrne McCormack - Dunkerrin shop and post office. For her great help and innovation during Covid and its aftermath.
Ken Smollen, Tullamore - For continuing his food appeal which helps so many needy families in Offaly and neighbouring counties.
Joe McLoughlin, Birr - For the exceptional care that he gives to the patients at St Brendan's Community Hospital in Birr.
Eileen Goulding, Shinrone- Eileen is the mother and full time carer for Billy who is paralysed after contracting a virus.
Tyrrell's Shop, Tullamore - For their ongoing service above and beyond the call of duty to the local community.
Hooves4Hospice - In recognition of their support of hospice services in the county and their fundraising work for the new Midlands Hospice.
The first tranche of 13 nominees, announced last week, are as follows: Judy Bryant, Killoughey; Michael Duignan, Banagher and Durrow; Paul Galvin, Tullamore; Anne Starling, Tullamore; John O'Connor, Durrow; Humphrey O'Connor, Tullamore; Anthony Kearns, Tullamore/ Ballinamere; Robert McDermott, Edenderry; Moneygall Camogie Club: Yvonne Farrell, Tullamore; Shinrone GAA; Alan McNamee, Rhode; Ned and Mary Smyth, Daingean.