Ray Conboy, Retail Operations Executive, Gala Retail; John Tobin, Meath Inspirational Hero; Monica O’Brien, of 4 Aces/BWG Foods and Paul Cummins, Store Manager, Kings Gala, Kiltale.

Trim man wins 'Inspirational Hero' Award

Noelle Finegan

Published: Wed 8 Dec 2021, 4:18 PM

Last updated: Wed 8 Dec 2021, 4:21 PM

FOLLOWING a nationwide search to uncover Ireland’s most inspirational people, John Tobin from Trim, is celebrating after being named an Inspirational Hero in the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards.

Established to shine a light on those individuals who make Ireland a better place with their selfless acts and inspirational deeds, John stood out for all his efforts in fundraising for many charities such as Special Olympics Ireland, raising over €250,000 for the charity.

John said he was very proud to win the award but also paid tribute to everyone who supports him in his fundraising efforts.

""It is all about the people that support me, the local people and the local businesses and people beyond that from outside the county as well. Only for those people, we wouldn't be able to do what we do," said John.

Inspirational people from across Ireland were nominated for the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards, with 26 inspirational county heroes being named from the hundreds of entries received.

Commenting on the quality of the entries, Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail said:

“We’re a national brand with a local focus, which is why we’ve partnered with Virgin Media to delivering a national platform to shine a light on and reward the amazing people who are making a real difference to Irish society.

“Now in their third year the Inspiration Awards pay homage to people from all across Ireland who play their part creating a better country for us all. Operating in communities throughout Ireland, Gala Retailers have seen first-hand some of the great work that people have been doing and we are proud to have been able to recognise some of these inspirational individuals. We were overwhelmed by the level of nominations we received and John along with the fellow inspirational heroes are true examples of people who are making Ireland a better place for us all.”

Marian Mattimoe from Mayo was named as Overall Inspirational Person at the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards.

Gala Retail has gifted €26,000 of prizes to the winners with the 26 county winners being awarded with €1000 hotel getaways across Ireland.