A coastal community which witnessed one of the worst trawler tragedies in recent years has launched a bid to secure an inshore lifeboat.

A priest and a retired fisherman have accepted a major award on behalf of an entire community which played a vital role in recovering the bodies of five fishermen who drowned off the West Cork coast.

The victims of the Tit Bonhomme trawler tragedy will be remembered during a special Mass next week to mark the first anniversary of the vessel’s sinking.

The people of Union Hall and the rescue services have been presented with a Cork Person of the Month award in recognition of their heroic and inspirational efforts in the wake of the Tit Bonhomme trawler tragedy.