YOUNG community stars shone at the latest edition of the Garda Youth Awards.
The 2026 ceremony was held at the Abbey Hotel in Donegal Town last Wednesday when people from across the county were honoured for their positive and meaningful contributions to their communities.
The Garda Youth Awards celebrate outstanding young people, aged between 13 and 21 years, and recognises the good work they are doing throughout their communities.
A Garda spokesperson said: “The awards highlighted the generosity, resilience, and determination of young people who go above and beyond to make their communities stronger.
“The evening began with a warm welcome from Chief Superintendent Goretti Sheridan.”
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan speaking at the Donegal Youth Awrds. (North West Newspix)
Among those recognised were students from Finn Valley College in Stranorlar.
They were nominated for an award in respect of their Our Donegal album in aid of the Donegal Hospice.
The first ever Garda Divisional Youth Awards was created by a juvenile liaison officer in Cork in 1995.
He noticed that the young people in the community were doing tremendous things which deserved recognition.
The awards have “grown in leaps and bounds” since then, according to the Garda spokesperson.
In 2019, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris launched the first ever An Garda Síochána National Youth Awards.
He said: “The inaugural Garda National Youth Awards will be a showcase for the positive contribution young people are making in their communities.
“The awards at national and divisional level are a great way for gardaí to develop strong relationships with community groups and young people in their area.”
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient Kately Warren. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient Olivia Ni Churráin. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipients Christopher Monaghan and friends. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient John James Warren. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient Chloe Shields. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient Amy Boal. (North West Newspix)
Members of the Fun Gang from Raphoe with Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan, (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan with Ruby Brennan, Cian Shovlin, Thomas Brennan and Aoibheann Mullin. (North West Newspix)
Chief Superintendant Goretti Sheridan presenting a certificate to recipient Caitlin McFadden. (North West Newspix)