Massive show of support for Mayo Tidy Towns group after theft

THERE has been a massive show of support for Ballina Tidy Towns group after a break-in at their stores last Tuesday night resulted in the theft of thousands of euro worth of equipment.

Among the items taken were leaf blowers, strimmers, hand tools and other essential gardening equipment used daily by the team of volunteers.

However, a local business has pledged significant sponsorship to get the voluntary group back on its feet to continue its invaluable work in the town.

The group, in a statement on its social media, said: “Here at Ballina Tidy Towns we have been overwhelmed by your messages of help and support since we reported the theft of equipment from our stores earlier this week.

“We can announce with very grateful hearts that we have been contacted by John Moloney, from Moloney SuperValu on Bunree Road, pledging significant funds in sponsorship to help us get back on our feet following the devastating loss of our equipment. We have also had support pledged by John’s son Bryan Moloney, who is in the process of opening his new store Centra/Maxol on the Sligo Road.

“We cannot express how grateful we are to the whole Moloney family, John, Edel and Bryan, for their generosity and support. Their contribution will significantly help us to move forward and regroup so we can continue our important work keeping our town clean, beautiful and a place to be proud of.

“Ballina should count itself very lucky to have such amazing people supporting our town.”

Meanwhile, anyone who has information about the break-in, or who is offered similar equipment for sale, is urged to contact Ballina Garda Station.