Tributes paid to 'an absolute gentleman'

Members of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District have paid tribute to the late Bernie Ludden, of Westport and Castlebar, who was a member of Mayo County Council's outdoor staff for decades. 

At their meeting last week, Cathaoirleach Cllr Peter Flynn stated: “Bernie was a key part of the council team in Westport over the years and himself and Larry McCarthy were known the length and breadth of the district long before litter awareness and Tidy Towns were on people’s agenda and they did an amazing job around town to keep it looking well. 

"You could set your clock by the two lads at 5.30am every morning when they were guaranteed to be on the streets. They were always friendly and courteous so to Bernie’s family, Nan and all the kids and extended family, I extend sympathy on behalf of the council to one of best organisers we had in the staff.” 

Cllr John O’Malley said he knew Bernie from meeting him on the streets “and he was such a gentleman, very dedicated to his job, always nice to meet and had a smile and a few words for everyone, an absolutely lovely man". 

Cllr Brendan Mulroy said Bernie was “an absolute stalwart of this town and when we talk about people who take pride in their job that was Bernie, an absolute gentleman and whenever he was on the streets, you knew it was a very safe place".

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.