'I had a ball at the Person of the Year Awards' - My week with Celia Holman Lee

A major highlight of March was the Limerick Person of the Year Awards. Each year, the awards celebrate the people and the communities that make Limerick so wonderful.

The event was hosted in the Clayton Hotel and I have to say the event is always absolutely fabulous - and this year was no exception.

The nominees and the participants were all superb. I was particularly delighted to celebrate the achievements of Valerie and Mick Dolan, who won the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The pair, who operate Dolan's Warehouse, have made a massive contribution to the city's nightlife and culture over the years. The award was a fantastic opportunity to give the hard-working couple their dues.

Not too long ago, I myself won the same award. I was thrilled to be acknowledged.
It always means so much to me to be able to be recognised on a Limerick stage - a place that is so dear to my heart.

At the event, I was delighted to chat to my long-time friend Áine Fitzgerald - the editor of this very paper. I get on so well with the woman, as, like me, she also takes a great interest in style, and keeps her ear to the ground on all the happenings in Limerick.

I also got talking to Alan English, the former editor of the Limerick Leader. The man is a powerhouse, and has gone on to do great things in national media.

We were also served a beautiful delicious meal by the Clayton at the awards. The staff did a wonderful job to make the event go smoothly and ensure that everyone was well looked after and comfortable at all times.

And of course a big congrats to the big winners - St John's Brass and Reed Band who were named Limerick Persons of the Year for their remarkable history of music making!

-Xx Celia