Team work and community spirit shine

Despite a difficult 20 months, the Kilnaleck community has pulled together to bring about a number of improvements in the town and it’s clear community spirit is as strong as ever.

The recent Tidy Towns competition saw Kilnaleck come third place in the county, and second in its size category. Through the efforts of the local Tidy Towns group and others, Kilnaleck increased its points in the competition by eight to 290 marks.

Bernie Boylan, secretary of the group, said it was down to a collective effort by locals and the business community.

“We have excellent support from Vladimir, Pascal and their supervisor Bernie Lynch at Crosserlough CE Scheme. They have ensured that the town is looking its best throughout the year and for that we are very grateful. Also we would like to thank Maria Morgan and her colleagues at Cavan County Council for their help and assistance throughout the year,” she acknowledged.

Bernie also highlighted the success of a litter pick in March to mark National Spring Clean. The group is always looking for new volunteers who will be provided with equipment.

Crosserlough GFC, the Réaltóg Centre, Kilnaleck Men’s Shed and all the local businesses operate under the umbrella of Kilnaleck Area Development.

Since 2019, the group has focused on enhancing the town centre and also linking up to the local amenities and facilities.

“Funding was secured under the Town and Village Revitalisation Scheme, which allowed for a new road surface with pedestrian crossing in the town centre, new footpaths installed and a town façade painting scheme, which has greatly enhanced the town. Works are currently underway, extending the footpath towards the handball alley,” outlined Bernie of progress made.

Among other successful initiatives in the community, Bernie referenced a biodiversity competition for children in the four local primary schools - Kilnaleck, Crosserlough, Drumkilly and Ballynarry.

“We received very impressive entries from the children, ranging from wildlife sketches to the construction of bug hotels and bird feeders. Prizes were kindly sponsored by local businesses, Crosserlough GFC and Cavan County Council,” she said.

“As a community, we are fortunate to have so many volunteer organisations working together for the betterment of Kilnaleck, instilling a Pride of Place and a sense of belonging in the parish, concluded Bernie.