Pride of Éireann Award for County Roscommon native

Well known Castlerea native and founder of MidWest Radio Paul Claffey has been honoured with a Pride of Éireann Award.

Mr Claffey, was presented with his award at a gala event at the Manchester Deansgate Hotel on Saturday night in recognition of his work and that of MidWest Radio in connecting emigrants with home.

The awards honour outstanding contributions to the Irish community across the UK. On the night leaders, achievers, and change-makers are brought together in the spirit of pride and heritage.

In accepting the honour Mr Claffey told the gathering: “In the early days of MidWest radio I had several objectives in mind, with two principles in particular standing out for me - firstly I wanted the radio station to be a source of information, education and entertainment for the people of Mayo and beyond and secondly I wanted it to be a bridge for the emigrant population."

He recalled that at that time, in the 1980s, “emigration from Ireland was still rife.” He continued: “I wanted MidWest radio to be the voice from home connecting Irish people around the world, particularly our neighbors here in the UK. Much has changed since then but one thing that never changed is the love people have for their native place.

“I'm sure there are people here in this room who are just as passionate about their home country today as they were when they left 50 or 60 years ago.

“At MidWest radio we have always recognised our emigrant population as a valued part of our radio family. This award belongs to our loyal listeners, our advertisers, our presenters and every member of the MidWest radio family. I want to thank you for support and your trust in allowing us to be part of your lives. I leave the final words to the great Kevin Prendergast who sang ‘Who will keep the home fires burning'. Let me assure you that all at MidWest radio will continue to do everything in our power to keep the light burning for many years to come.”