Winner: Trinity Arts Project, Co Roscommon

Summary
The Holy Trinity Church, Castlerea, is steeped in history. Dr Douglas Hyde was baptised in the church. Sir William Wilde, father of Oscar, served as rector at the church in the mid 19th century. Castlerea Community Arts Group (CCAG) has lovingly restored the church over the last 15 years, taking it from a ruin to a multi-functioning facility comprising of the main hall which can seat 200+, two meeting rooms and a kitchenette. The facility caters for all types of functions, concerts, meetings, conferences, exhibitions, weddings etc. Organising and running events is done on a voluntary basis by the members of CCAG. Community spirit is at the forefront and the group strives to host events that bring all sectors of the community together. It is a shining example of what coming together with community spirit and hard work can achieve.
Group Contact: Breege Callaghan [email protected]

Citation
The judges had a lovely visit to this fantastic centre which was a surprise and a welcome from the moment they walked through the door. They heard a great story of endeavour, enterprise, commitment and a “can do” mentality which resulted in a fifteen year journey of hard work and belief and finally success. The group described themselves during a series of excellent presentations as ordinary people doing extraordinary things. The judges believe these people are themselves extraordinary people.