Five County Cork entrants vie for Pride of Place awards

Among five County Cork entrants to the IPB Pride of Place awards facing adjudication this week are a seaside town, a group of search and rescue volunteers, and the only place in Ireland to claim it never reared a fool.

Established in 2003 and sponsored by IPB Insurance, Pride of Place is an all-island competition across Ireland that celebrates volunteerism, community development, and civic pride.

On Monday, Cork County Council welcomed adjudicators John Briggs and Brendan McGrath to County Hall for the start of a three-day adjudication visit to communities across the county.

They were officially received by the Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Bernard Moynihan, chief executive Moira Murrell, and director of services Nicola Radley.

This week they will visit five County Cork entries participating in the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards.

These are:

Youghal: A seaside resort with Viking origins dating back to the 11th century, and named after the yew woods once plentiful in the area. Visited on Monday;

Mallow: The home of Mallow Search and Rescue — a water-based volunteer group doing selfless work since 1983. Visited on Monday;

Kiskeam Village: Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty, the so-called Scarlett Pimpernel of the Vatican, who saved 6,500 lives during the Second World War, was born near here. Visited yesterday;

Macroom: The town that allegedly never reared a fool, was visited yesterday;

Cnoc Buí, Union Hall: Which boasts a community arts centre with a focus on arts, culture and heritage, which is being visited today.

The IPB Pride of Place Awards celebrate the commitment, innovation, and community spirit of local groups and volunteers who work to improve their communities and make them better places to live, work, and visit.

Mr Moynihan welcomed the adjudicators to Cork, saying it was an opportunity to showcase the work being undertaken by community groups throughout the county.

“I wish each of our participating groups the very best of luck and thank them for the enormous contribution they make to their communities every day,” Mr Moynihan said.

Ms Murrell said she was delighted to welcome the adjudicators to Cork and wished all participating groups every success in this year’s competition.

“The IPB Pride of Place Awards recognise the outstanding contribution of volunteers, community organisations, and local leaders to communities across Cork,” Ms Murrell said.

“Your contribution is very much appreciated.”