Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 22 years ago through a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development. Cathaoirleach, Monaghan County Council, Cathy Bennett, says, “We are honoured as one of the smallest local authorities on the island to have been entrusted by Co-operation Ireland and IPB Insurance to host this year’s Pride of Place Awards. Pride of Place founder and Chairman Tom Dowling says, “After 22 extraordinary years, our judges still never cease to be inspired by the wonderful achievements of the fantastic communities nominated by their local council to represent their place in these prestigious awards.”