The Chairman of Strabane District Council, Jarlath McNulty has urged local residents to “take pride” in their towns and villages after the council received only one entry for this year’s ‘best kept’ competition.

The council are now seeking feedback from the local community to help them understand their reluctance to compete in the district - wide competition.

Despite running the competition for the past 12 years, the council are now considering the viability of running another due to the lack of interest.

At a recent Council meeting, councillors expressed their disappointment regarding the low interest and are now carefully considering why local people are so reluctant to get involved.

Councillor McNulty said: “Last year Strabane District Council proudly received a Pride of Place award. Co-operation Ireland recognised the community spirit and pride local people have here in their home town.

“I know many local residents take pride in their properties and maintain their gardens to the highest standards. We are questioning why local community groups do not feel up to the challenge of competing for this “Best Kept” accolade anymore.”

Moreover, the council’s Chief Technical Services Officer, Malcolm Scott said that the council had went to great lengths to ensure towns and villages were visually attractive. “Council has installed many new floral planters, sculptures and environmental improvements to the towns and villages of the district over recent months. We are doing what we can but we need the co-operation from local community groups and local residents.

“We have written to 114 community groups in the district and have only received one completed nomination form. Perhaps we do not offer enough incentives? Perhaps we do not publicize it widely enough?” he said.

Colr. McNulty said that the accolade, which has been awarded to areas such as Ardstraw, Ballymagorry, Killen and Newtowstewart, has historically not had many applications from Strabane, Castlederg, Glebe, Clady, Artigarvan or Donemana.

“There is no reason why any of the villages or estates throughout Strabane District cannot aspire to be like Broughshane or Moira who have received international awards relating to how beautiful their villages are and their fantastic, garden floral displays.

“I believe that we have the potential to be as ‘green fingered’ as they are. We just want to ensure that we have the processes right to get more people involved. Contact us if you have anything to say on this competition on 028 71 381341 or via email to info@strabanedc.com,” he said.