Winner: Clogherhead, Co Louth

Summary
In a picturesque natural bay setting Clogherhead peninsula affords uninterrupted views of the Mourne and Cooley mountains to the north and Lambay Island to the south. The village developed around the fishing industry with Port Oriel as its centre. With the establishment of a very successful Fishermans’ Co-operative, there has been sustainable development of the harbour in recent times. Reflecting a strong coastal tradition, an RNLI lifeboat has been stationed in the village for over 100 years with the current boat, the RNLB Doris Bleasedale, being the only beach-launched lifeboat in Ireland. With a Blue Flag beach, the local community regularly participates in the nationwide coastwatch.org survey, providing a detailed local ecological assessment. The refurbishment of the Old Schoolhouse recently has also provided a bustling centre for the residents of this thriving community and is home to many of the events taking place.
Community Contact: Oliver Kirwan

Citation
This development group has been in existence for a number of years and despite economic downturns and other set backs has and continues to make great progress. The pride in their place was evident in the very large number of people who turned out for the various events displayed to the judges on the day and the atmosphere was positively palpable. The interaction between the many community groups in the area has been a significant factor in the success achieved to date.

Runner up: Rams Island, Co Antrim