Riverstown proudly welcomed the Entente Florale Europe international judging committee on Thursday, 9 July, as part of the village's participation in the prestigious European horticultural and community improvement competition.
Riverstown Welcomes Entente Florale Europe International Jury
The international jury, comprising representatives from France, Czechia, Hungary, Spain, Italy and Germany, was accompanied by Irish mentors William Kearney, Dr Christy Boylan and Bernadette Solan. The delegation received an official welcome from Jim Molloy, Director of Services, Sligo County Council, Brían Flynn, Director of Services, Sligo County Council and Martin Baker, Chairperson of Riverstown Tidy Towns.
A special tree-planting ceremony took place at Sligo Folk Park, where six apple trees, generously supplied by the local Aurivo Co-op in Riverstown, were planted to commemorate the judges' visit. Each member of the international jury participated in the ceremony by helping to plant a tree and was presented with a commemorative tree-planting certificate marking the occasion.
The judging tour showcased a wide range of community, environmental, heritage and recreational initiatives that highlight Riverstown's strengths across the Entente Florale Europe judging criteria. The route included visits to:
- The Bull Pillar and Mill Race
- River Unshin
- Taunagh National School
- Church of the Sacred Heart
- Community Childcare Centre, Playground and Chapel Garden
- Brookfield Close
- Teach Ceoil Morrison and Arrow Harps
- Tidy Towns Community Garden and Fort Field
- Community Park
- Sligo Folk Park
At each location, the jury met the people behind many of Riverstown's key projects, gaining first-hand insight into the work taking place throughout the community in areas such as biodiversity, heritage conservation, education, recreation, sustainability and community development.
Residents, volunteers and representatives from local organisations were on hand throughout the day to welcome the judges and demonstrate the strong community spirit that has been central to Riverstown's success. Their enthusiasm and commitment helped showcase the collaborative approach that underpins the village's achievements.
Speaking on the occasion, Cllr Barry Gallagher, Cathaoirleach of Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District, said:
"Today is a proud and historic occasion. Riverstown's selection to represent Ireland in Entente Florale Europe 2026 is a remarkable achievement and the first time a town or village from County Sligo has received this honour. The nomination reflects years of dedication, vision and partnership between Riverstown Tidy Towns, local volunteers, community groups and Sligo County Council."
Riverstown's participation in Entente Florale Europe reflects the ongoing commitment of the local community to enhancing the village as a sustainable, vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit.
The results of the competition will be announced at the Entente Florale Europe Awards Ceremony in September, where Riverstown will join communities from across Europe in celebrating excellence in environmental stewardship, community involvement and quality of life.
