Millstreet, Kanturk and Crosshaven Take Top Honours in County Cork's Anti-Litter Challenge
Cork communities prove that civic pride and volunteer spirit can keep our towns and villages spotless, with Millstreet, Kanturk and Crosshaven leading by example.
Three Cork communities have emerged victorious in the county's annual battle against litter, with Millstreet, Kanturk and Crosshaven claiming the top spots in their respective categories at Monday night's awards ceremony.
More than 170 volunteers gathered at Cork County Hall on Monday evening to celebrate the winners of the 2025 Anti-Litter Challenge, a competition that has been encouraging communities to keep their streets spotless since the 1990s.
The annual contest sees towns and villages across Cork County judged on the presence or absence of litter on their roads and streets, with communities competing for recognition of their voluntary efforts to maintain clean public spaces.
Millstreet claimed the top prize in Towns Category A, whilst Kanturk took first place in Category B and Crosshaven secured victory in Category C. Macroom earned special recognition as the most improved town, demonstrating that persistence pays off in the fight against litter.
In the village categories, Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh claimed the large village title, with Knocknagree taking honours in the small village division.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan-Foley, said:
"The work undertaken by voluntary community groups to keep our towns and villages free from litter does not go unnoticed. The awards night is our way of showing our appreciation to those who undertake countless hours of unpaid work."
The Mayor highlighted the impressive participation levels, with 21 towns and 66 villages taking part in this year's challenge across the county.
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, added:
"The Anti-Litter Challenge is one of the Council's most significant community initiatives and is an example of what can be achieved through community spirit and civic pride."
The competition has evolved from its origins as a response to litter problems in the 1990s into one of Cork County's flagship community programmes, recognising the environmental, social and economic benefits of clean towns and villages.
Passage West and Castletownbere secured second and third places respectively in Towns Category A, whilst Mallow and Youghal claimed the remaining podium spots in Category B. Mitchelstown and Clonakilty rounded out the top three in Category C.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for Cork County Council to formally acknowledge the dedication of volunteers who maintain community standards year-round, often working behind the scenes to keep their local areas pristine.
