Community champion: Mayo town applauds its 2025 Tidy Towns Volunteer of the Year

Westport’s streets are looking a little brighter these days — and much of that is down to the quiet dedication of one local volunteer.

Michael Geraghty has been named Westport Tidy Towns’ 2025 Volunteer of the Year, recognised for his commitment, attention to detail and the countless hours he has spent repainting bins, street furniture and utility boxes across the town.

He was recently presented with a token of appreciation by Westport Tidy Towns Chairperson Eithne Larkin, in recognition of his efforts throughout the past year. The presentation took place at the Annual General Meeting of the organisation.

Originally living outside the town, Mr Geraghty moved into the heart of Westport three years ago. Having medically retired, he found himself with more time on his hands — and a desire to give something back.

“I knew the organisation was quite good,” he said. “So I attended the advertised clean-ups initially and got involved that way.”

Project work

What began with general clean-up events soon developed into more hands-on project work. Alongside fellow volunteer Paddy Murray, he began taking on smaller maintenance tasks around the town. However, it was his painting work that would ultimately earn him this year’s accolade.

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Bins and electrical utility boxes around Westport had become weathered and worn. Rather than waiting for someone else to take on the task, Mr Geraghty stepped forward.

“I did quite a lot of painting of the bins and the electrical utility boxes around the town,” he explained. “They had deteriorated quite a bit. We did a great job to brighten up, so I was glad to have the opportunity to do that.”

Working flexibly around the weather, he often carried out the painting outside of regular Tidy Towns hours, making use of the free time his retirement allowed. During busy periods, he estimates he can spend up to 10 hours a week volunteering.

Despite the recognition, Mr Geraghty remains modest about his contribution.

“Oh, very much so, yes,” he said when asked if he was surprised to be named Volunteer of the Year. “Lots of other people that seem to have much more equipment than I do [...] there are many other people who are heavily committed on Saturdays and Sundays, and I am inspired by them. I try to keep up.”

Connection and community

For him, volunteering is about more than just maintenance work. It is about connection and community.

“They are a very, very welcoming group,” he said. “I got a few friends from it and was able to do physical activities that are meaningful and see a result for it.It instils pride in the town.”

That pride is evident in the small details — freshly painted bins, smartened-up utility boxes and well-kept public spaces that contribute to Westport’s reputation as one of Mayo’s most attractive towns.

Westport Tidy Towns continues to play a key role in maintaining the town’s high standards, with volunteers carrying out litter picks, planting projects, biodiversity initiatives and improvement works throughout the year.

As the 2026 Tidy Towns season approaches, Mr Geraghty already has his eye on what needs attention next. For anyone considering getting involved, his advice is straightforward.

“Just do it,” he said. “They are a very, very welcoming group.”

He describes the organisation as energetic and supportive, with teams that embrace new members and guide them through the basics.

In a town known for its strong community spirit, Michael Geraghty’s quiet dedication is a reminder that lasting improvements often begin with simple acts.

READ MORE: Westport’s Clean Sweep: the volunteers behind Ireland’s third cleanest town