Photos: Andy Spearman
A local volunteer has been recognised for years of work improving the Dublin Road area in Drogheda.
On Bank Holiday Monday, Drogheda Tidy Towns presented the first award under its new Clean and Litter Free Community Awards and Recognition Programme to Donal Lucey.
Donal has spent many years working in the area where he lives, carrying out litter picking, mowing, weeding, planting and general upkeep to improve the surroundings.
Drogheda Tidy Towns has been organising volunteer projects across the town for almost twenty years. The new awards programme was launched over the weekend with support from Cllr Ejiro O Hare Stratton and aims to recognise those who go above and beyond in their local areas.
The work carried out by Donal and a small group of volunteers on the Dublin Road has received recognition both locally and nationally. The Irish Business Against Litter organisation has rated the area an A for cleanliness and presentation.
Donal first became involved with Drogheda Tidy Towns after speaking with his neighbour Paddy Dwyer, who continues to be involved in the group’s work.
His commitment to improving the area has been widely noted, with members of the community contributing flowers, shrubs and their time to support the efforts.
Last year, Donal and his group planted 500 bulbs on the embankment near the train station, which are now in bloom. Plans are also in place to install seating at the bus stop at the entrance to Bryanstown and on the opposite side of the road.
Chairman of Drogheda Tidy Towns Committee Gerry Leydon said: “It was a real pleasure to present our first Clean & Litter-Free Community Award to Donal Lucey. It’s not just the incredible work he does along the Dublin Road, but the care, pride and quiet dedication he brings to it every day that makes him so special. He’s a wonderful example of what community spirit is all about.”
“These awards aren’t a competition, they are a way to recognise the ongoing, positive efforts that help make our town, housing estates and neighbourhoods cleaner, tidier, and more welcoming for everyone.
“The Drogheda Tidy Towns Clean and Litter-Free Community Awards celebrate individuals and resident groups who take pride in keeping their local areas clean and attractive.”
Four awards are to be presented each year, one every three months. Each award highlights people or resident groups who:
· Regularly pick up litter or maintain cleanliness in their area
· Keep shared spaces such as greens, verges, or entrances neat and tidy
· Take the initiative to enhance the appearance of their street or estate
· Organise or take part in clean-ups that make a noticeable improvement
· Show consistent care and pride in their local environment
· The emphasis is on practical action, community spirit, and visible results.
The Drogheda Tidy Towns committee will select one award recipient every three months and welcomes input and feedback from members of the public, Councillors, Council staff, businesses and community groups.
You can contact Drogheda Tidy Towns via the following channels: Tel: 087 232 0101
https://droghedatidytowns.com/
Facebook – droghedatidytowns
