Mayo town duo honoured at national event

COMMUNITY NOTES: CLAREMORRIS - WESTERN PEOPLE (JUNE 3 EDITION)

There was great pride in Claremorris last week as two local people were recognised at the National No Name Club Youth Awards, held in the Tullamore Court Hotel.

The event celebrated the achievements of young people and volunteers involved in the organisation, which provides safe, alcohol and drug-free social spaces for teenagers.

Among those honoured was long-standing Claremorris volunteer Con Nolan, who received a special presentation in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to the No Name Club over the past 25 years.

Con was one of the founding members of the Claremorris branch in 2000, and since then has played a central role in shaping and sustaining its success.

The club, which began with gatherings in the Dalton Inn, later moved to a premises on Mount Street thanks to the generosity of James and Patricia Keane, and is now based on James Street. Over the years, it has catered for groups ranging from 60 to 100 teenagers, offering a vital social outlet for young people in the area.

Con also served for two decades with the national No Name Club head office in Dublin, offering his time and experience at a national level.

His award - a commemorative vase - was presented as a mark of the organisation’s deep appreciation for his tireless work and dedication to the youth of Claremorris.

Mount Saint Michael Transition Year student Diane Hession also brought pride to the town as she was nominated for the prestigious Host of the Year award. Diane is a committed member of the Claremorris No Name Club and was recognised nationally for her enthusiasm, leadership, and positive influence on her peers.

Speaking at the event, No Name Club chairman Dr Garrett Keenaghan praised all those involved, saying the awards celebrated not only individual achievement, but the strength of character and community values shared by nominees.

Claremorris can be proud of its continued contribution to this national movement.

With strong volunteer support and a new generation of young leaders like Diane stepping forward, the No Name Club in the town continues to thrive as a positive force for young people.