County Galway has landed two Gold Medals alongside a suite of national honours in the 2026 SuperValu TidyTowns competition, with Abbey crowned the county's overall winner and named Tidiest Village. Abbey and Milltown claimed Gold, Clarinbridge and Ballygar secured Silver, while Oranmore and Tuam earned Bronze for their local environmental efforts.

Abbey led the county table, with Milltown second and Clarinbridge third. Milltown retained its Gold Medal and Clarinbridge achieved Silver Medal status, reflecting the sustained, year-round commitment of local volunteers.

In the special awards, Headford TidyTowns was announced as a joint national winner of the Greenways and Active Travel Award for promoting sustainable travel and expanding opportunities for walking and cycling.

Ballygar TidyTowns won the Gum Litter Award in the Village and Small Town category and was also named the overall national winner of that award. Tuam TidyTowns achieved national winner status in the Large Town category, while Scoil Naofa Barna was recognised as a regional winner in the Schools Award.

Lettermullen/Ballinakill received the County Endeavour Award in recognition of its progress and work to enhance the local area.

Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, Cllr Andrew Reddington, attended the ceremony in Dublin and congratulated the successful groups, paying tribute to the volunteers whose efforts have earned recognition across the county. "TidyTowns groups are at the core of everything good done in the community. Their work plays a huge role in enhancing our towns and villages as places to live, work, visit and do business," he said.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said the achievements reflect the pride people take in their communities and their determination to improve them.

"Galway County Council is delighted to support TidyTowns groups across the county throughout the year. These groups make an enormous contribution to their local areas, often through years of voluntary work, and the council recognises the value of that commitment.

"Their work delivers lasting benefits for the environment and enhances the quality of life in towns and villages throughout Galway. I congratulate all the groups recognised in this year's competition and thank the volunteers who give so generously of their time."

Michael Owens, Director of Services for Community Development at Galway County Council, said the results showcase the breadth of projects underway across the county.

"That work includes protecting biodiversity, improving public spaces, reducing litter, promoting sustainability and supporting active travel initiatives.

"These achievements are built on the time, energy and community spirit of volunteers working throughout the year," he said.

The SuperValu TidyTowns competition is one of Ireland's most established community initiatives, recognising work that enhances the appearance, environmental quality and sustainability of towns and villages nationwide.