Despite everything that is going on with the economy and the pressures we are all experiencing at the moment, it has to be said that Delvin is looking well!

The hard work that has been put in to the Tidy Towns campaign is really starting to show and – while there is plenty more to do, everyone should feel proud of what has been achieved so far.

The main street has been brightened up with hanging baskets and several shops and private residences have added their own floral displays.

Extra effort has been put in to keeping pavements swept and clear of litter. Please remember that even five to ten minutes maintaining the area around your own property can make a huge difference when others are doing the same.

A small team of volunteers have been working on clearing the grounds surrounding St Mary’s Church – a mammoth project that will take some time to complete.

Artists have been painting a colourful mural on boarded up properties at the northern end of the main street and work is to begin on painting the old post office within days.

Also worthy of note is the effort being made by local businesses in these hard times. The new barber shop is now open and a new cafe will be opening shortly. Please remember to support these and established local businesses whenever possible.