Killarney aims for the top in Tidy Towns competition

IT used to be said — and with some justification — that the town of Killarney did not match the beauty of its exquisite surroundings.

However, things have gradually been changing and the tourist mecca is within striking distance of the top prize in the Tidy Towns' competition.

Gone from business premises are the Chinatown-style, plastic neon signs, which have been replaced by traditional signage and facades. Flowers have been planted on roundabouts, shops have colourful window boxes and trees are generously spread around.

''The idea is to bring some of the beauty of the area into the town,'' explained Mayor of Killarney Sheila Casey.

The Killarney Looking Good competition has, since its inception in 1991, played a key role in giving the town a much-needed facelift and this year's event has just been launched.

The competition, backed by the town council, chamber of commerce and other groups, involves all sections of the community and there are 25 categories.

Last year, Killarney was just seven marks away from winning the outright Tidy Towns' award and Mayor Casey is confident that it's only a matter of time before Killarney brings home the title.

Two other Kerry towns, Sneem and Kenmare, have won it.

''Killarney is at the top and is ready to scoop the overall award,'' the mayor declared.

''This is a massive community effort, but it needs to be maintained to ensure that Killarney reaches its ultimate goal.''

Killarney Looking Good is sponsored by The Kingdom which is offering 2,000 in advertising to the best large business premises.