A whos who of personalities, politicians and public representatives gathered at the Clarion Hotel in Limerick city last week to greet An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and veteran broadcaster Terry Wogan at the Limerick Person of the Year Awards.
Presented with a Special Lifetime Achievement Award at the lavish ceremony, Sir Terry expressed his delight to be returning to the place he called home for fifteen years.
"This is a wonderful evening and I feel particularly humbled when I see the people up for the Person of the Year award-far more deserving. I know that I haven't been here in person but I am here in spirit. I am proud to be part of a very proud city and county and honoured to accept this award," he said.
The Limerick Person of the Year awards recognises twelve special individuals who have left an indelible mark on the Limerick landscape through either their sporting, educational or personal achievements.
The overall Limerick Person of the Year for 2007 was transatlantic rower Paul Gleeson who, along with his girlfriend Tori Holmes, made history in the winter of 2005 by rowing 2,500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in a 24ft wooden rowing boat-raising €30,000 for the charity Concern.
Paul became the third and youngest ever Irish person to complete this journey.
"We got so many messages from the people of Limerick and it genuinely really, really did help us to keep going during some very tough times.
So from me and on behalf of Tori, I just want to say thank you to the people of Limerick for supporting us," said Paul, on accepting the award.
Commending the efforts of all the award winners, An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said: "The pace of life that we live now is different to past times when people had more time to give to their parish and their area.
Tonight therefore is in recognition of people who do extraordinary things in their life time-helping others, participating in their local communities and overcoming huge difficulties.
"I am delighted that Limerick is recognising Terry Wogan with this Special Lifetime Achievement Award.
