Bettystown Tidy Towns have been shortlisted for the Tourism Special Recognition section of the annual Ocean Hero Awards which pay tribute to the contributions made by Clean Coasts volunteers, groups, and communities in safeguarding our coast and marine life. 

Established in 2006 as the 'Clean Coasts' Merit Awards,' the accolades initially featured a single category, 'The Clean Coasts Group of the Year.' Over the years, the programme has evolved, engaging over 2,000 Clean Coasts groups and 40,000 volunteers, becoming an integral part of coastal communities nationwide.

This year, the Ocean Hero Awards take on special significance as Clean Coasts marks its 20th Anniversary. Over the past 20 years, Clean Coasts has grown from strength to strength expanding and creating campaigns and initiatives aimed at enjoying, protecting and celebrating the beauty of our coast.

None of that would be possible without the groups and volunteers all across Ireland that have helped make and grow the programme into what it is today.

Bettystown Tidy Towns were nominated for the work they carried out to secure their first Green Flag Award, in Spring 2023.

This remarkable milestone stands as the culmination of extensive efforts by the group, which included daily litter picks, the installation of beach recycling and cigarette butt bins, and the organisation of over twenty beach cleaning and coastal education days in collaboration with local schools, businesses, and community volunteers.

The Green Flag will boost the visibility the area, benefiting local businesses, but it will also serve as a powerful educational tool, enlightening beach goers on the vital importance of protecting and maintaining the beach and coastline. 

To view the full shortlist, see: www.cleancoasts.org.