Last week, our team hit the road for a two-night stay in Limerick. It was a long drive from Belfast, but we were excited to explore a new city – one that neither of us had visited before! On of the joys of Pride of Place is visiting parts of the island that you might not normally have the chance to see.

Our first stop was the site visit, where we were able to view the beautiful space in the Strand Hotel where the awards themselves will take place. We had the expertise of our AV company to guide us, ensuring that everything from sound, lighting and staging – is spot on. These visits are so important to iron out every little detail: stage position, dance floor layout, centrepieces, sign-in desks — all carefully planned to make sure the event runs smoothly. Our goal is to give our incredible community groups a real VIP experience when they walk through those doors in November!

Next up was the official launch event. It was a good sign that the sun was trying to come out and it stayed dry for us! After everyone was fed and watered, and had a good opportunity to chat, we heard from our three key partners.

The Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, warmly welcomed us all to Limerick, saying it was “a real honour” for the city to host this year’s Pride of Place Awards and highlighting the amazing work being done by volunteers across communities.

Joe Delaney, Deputy Director General at Limerick City and County Council, spoke about the council’s pride in showcasing Limerick’s "different kind of energy" and its commitment to inclusion, civic pride and empowering local people.

Next, John Hogan said a few words on behalf of our headline sponsor, IPB Insurance. He reminded us that Pride of Place is “more than an awards event” – it’s a way to celebrate the spirit, determination and creativity of communities right across the island.

Then Ian Jeffers from Co-operation Ireland wrapped things up, reflecting on how Pride of Place celebrates the dedication of volunteers and how the awards “speak to what Co-operation Ireland is all about – bridging communities and building peace and prosperity.”

We were thrilled to be joined by Limerick’s nominee groups, who we hope left feeling energised and highly motivated ahead of their own judging visits next month.

After plenty of photos – including a slightly nerve-wracking climb up a spiral staircase to the top of the Castle, where we were rewarded with spectacular views of the city - there was a great buzz and lots of excitement for the upcoming summer judging season.

The full press release went out on limerick.ie. We’re delighted that it gained plenty of traction in the Independent, I Love Limerick, and Limerick Live.

The next day, to round off our visit, we enjoyed a brilliant menu tasting, curated for us by the talented team at the Strand Hotel. At every awards ceremony, we try to put on a real showcase of local produce for the dinner, and this year’s menu is no exception. They’ll be no spoilers here, in case you’re wondering, but we promise you won’t be disappointed on the night!

We drove back home through torrential rain, exhausted but delighted that everything went so well and full of confidence that this year’s awards are shaping up to be something special.

Huge thanks to everyone involved last week, including our partners, the community groups, and especially our friends at Limerick City and County Council and the Strand Hotel for looking after us so well. We can’t wait to come back in November!

Hazel and Jess

We travel to Limerick to launch the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards

Contact

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