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The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Kieran McCarthy, honoured two Corkonians for their exemplary contributions to the community and heritage at a private ceremony at City Hall on Monday.

Celebrating Cork’s Local Heroes

John Hennessy from Cobh was awarded the ‘Historian of the Year’ for his role as the President of the Great Island Historical Society and his exceptional contributions to telling Cobh’s history. Paddy O’Brien, native to Spangle Hill, was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his four-decade commitment to the ‘Over 60s Talent Competition’, an event that not only entertains but also tackles issues of loneliness among the elderly.

The Lord Mayor was delighted to acknowledge the accomplishments of these individuals.

“I am pleased to recognise the incredible work done by John and Paddy. They have enriched Cork’s community in unique ways, whether through preserving history or creating social opportunities for older residents,” said Cllr. McCarthy.

The Lord Mayor’s Community & Heritage Concert

The Lord Mayor also announced details for the upcoming annual Lord Mayor’s Community & Heritage Concert. Scheduled to take place on Saturday, 30 September at Cork City Hall, this year’s concert promises an eclectic line-up featuring local talents like the Barrack Street Band, Voices of Cork Choir, Linda Kenny, and Art Supple among others.

“I am delighted to be officiating at this year’s Community & Heritage Concert. This concert epitomises social inclusion and community participation at work. It promises to be an enjoyable and entertaining evening,” said the Lord Mayor.

Tickets are distributed by the committee to those who wouldn’t usually have the opportunity to attend such an event.

‘Celebrating Cork’s Past’ Exhibition

An accompanying exhibition titled ‘Celebrating Cork Past’ will also be held at the Millennium Hall in Cork City Hall. Supported by the Cork City Council, Cork County Council, and the Cork Lions Club, the exhibition aims to celebrate local history and heritage. It will be open to the public from 11 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.

Cllr. Frank O’Flynn, Mayor of the County of Cork, said:

“This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for heritage groups to come together, promote their heritage, make new connections, and learn from one another.”

Get Involved

For those interested in attending the concert or exhibition, more information can be obtained by contacting [email protected].

The events are organised by a voluntary committee comprising Committee Chair, former Lord Mayor of Cork, Mr Brian Bermingham, Cork historian Richard T. Cooke, Concert Producer Billy O’ Callaghan, (Barrack Street Band), members of the Cork Lions Club, Pat O’Brien and Teresa Dineen and Cork City and County Councils.