Clare council leader honours those who represent county 'with distinction'

CLARE'S council leader Tony O'Brien hosted a special reception to honour a number of groups and individuals across the banner.

Speaking at the event, held in Clare's County Hall at Ennis, he hailed the "the outstanding contributions and achievements” of the award recipients, who represent a cross-section of the community in the county.

Among those receiving awards were Darren Byrnes and Ian Bolger for their efforts in rescuing a child from dangerous waters in Doonbeg.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, members of the Order of Malta Shannon were also honoured.

As was EI Electronics co-founder Mick Guinee for his support of community organisations in Shannon, and his firm's employment of hundreds of people in the Shannon Industrial Estate.

Diarmuid Nash and Colin Crehan were honoured for their success in the double's category at the All-Ireland Four-Wall senior championships, making it a third senior doubles title for the pair.

Special recognition was also paid to the success of women in sport in Clare.

Clarecastle and Clare camogie goalkeeper Doireann Murphy picked up the Munster Senior Camogie Player of the Year Award.

While Ennis/Kilrush Women’s Rugby Club enjoyed underage and senior success over the past year.

And Rachel Akers claimed two golds in hammer and weight throw, at the World Indoor Masters Athletics Championships earlier this year.

"As Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council I am delighted to be able to honour these very worthy award recipients with a mayoral reception," he stated, "I believe it is important that we officially recognise achievements by members of the local community. There are many individuals and groups who are making a real difference in our communities and who represent County Clare with distinction."