Blackrock Shines as Entente Florale Europe Jury Visits County Louth

Blackrock was bathed in glorious sunshine for the arrival of the Entente Florale Europe judging committee on Wednesday, 8 July.

Members of the international jury, made up of representatives from Czechia, Hungary, Spain, Italy and Germany, were accompanied by Irish mentors Bill Kearney, Dr Christy Boylan and Bernadette Solan, whose knowledge, experience and guidance have played an important role in Blackrock’s preparations in the lead up to the event.

The visit marked the culmination of over a year of planning and collaboration between Blackrock Tidy Towns, Louth County Council, community groups, businesses and residents, who all worked together to showcase the very best that the area has to offer.

Proceedings began at Blackrock and Haggardstown Community Centre, where the jury was welcomed with a presentation and exhibition showcasing Blackrock's achievements in areas such as biodiversity, planning, tourism and community life.

The jury then attended a flag-raising ceremony on the promenade, accompanied by traditional Irish music, before embarking on a 12-stop tour of the village and surrounding area.

The route took in a range of locations that demonstrated Blackrock's strengths across the Entente Florale Europe judging criteria, including Priest's Beach, St Oliver Plunkett's Church, Dundalk Golf Club, The New Line, the Old Mass Path, Hamilton Marsh, St Francis National School, Rathmount Estate and Blackrock Park.

At each location, the jury met the people behind many of the key projects in Blackrock, gaining an insight into the work taking place across the community in areas such as biodiversity, heritage, education, recreation and sustainability.

Community participation was evident throughout the day. Local traders set up stalls beside the old swimming pool walkway, pupils from St Francis National School delivered presentations to the jury, and children from Rathmount Estate proudly showcased artwork created especially for the occasion.

Residents, volunteers and local groups were also on hand throughout the route to offer their encouragement and demonstrate the strong community spirit that underpins Blackrock's entry.

Cllr Shane McGuinness, Leas-Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, praised the efforts of all involved.

"Blackrock looked absolutely magnificent, and that is down to the dedication and hard work of so many people across the community. Blackrock Tidy Towns deserves enormous credit for the leadership it has shown throughout this process, while residents, businesses, schools, sporting organisations and community groups have all played their part.

“The judges were given a fantastic insight into what makes Blackrock such a special place. The sense of pride, volunteerism and community spirit on display throughout the day was something everyone involved can be extremely proud of."

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said the visit highlighted the strength of collaboration between the Council and the local community.

"This visit was the focal point of a year's planning and partnership between Louth County Council, Blackrock Tidy Towns and the wider community. It provided an opportunity to showcase not only the natural beauty of Blackrock, but also the significant work that has been undertaken to enhance public spaces, support biodiversity, improve infrastructure and strengthen the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

"The enthusiasm and professionalism demonstrated throughout the day reflected extremely well on Blackrock and County Louth, and I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the visit such a success."