Plaque erected in honour of Mayo voluntary ambulance service personnel

VOLUNTARY ambulance service personnel in Mayo, past and present, have been honoured in a fitting manner today.

A plaque was unveiled at Mayo Peace Park in Castlebar in recognition of their selfless and dedicated service to the State during the two World wars as well as during disasters and crises at home and abroad over the years.

The ceremony, which took place as part of the 75th anniversary celebrations by Castlebar Order of Malta, also honoured deceased members of the Order of Malta, Civil Defence, Irish Red Cross and St. John's Ambulance in the county as well as paying tribute to serving members of the units.

The formal blessing was performed by Fr. Charlie McDonnell, adm., Westport.

Speaking at the event, the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Blackie Gavin, said the people of the region owed a huge debt of gratitude to those involved in the volumtary ambulance services.

Other speakers included Liam McHugh, officer-in-charge, Castlebar Unit of Order of Malta, and Lieutenant Tom Jennings of the unit.