Published: Friday, 3rd April, 2009 10:31am

Revealed: Athlone"s People of the Year 2009

Athlone"s social event of the year, The Athlone People of the Year Awards, is rapidly approaching.

Already there has been a frenzy of excitement surrounding the event, with tickets rapidly selling out for the gala night on Friday, April 24th, in the Radisson SAS Hotel.

This week, the Westmeath Independent can finally reveal the eight award winners - recognised for their outstanding contribution whether as individuals or as part of a group.

Some of the winners are household names; others have made an impression away from the limelight. Their contributions vary from the world of sport to education, from charity to culture.

What they share though is the fact that they have all made a real difference to this area or further afield, and to the lives of those they have touched.

Athlone can be rightly proud of this year"s People of the Year winners, all the more so because they were chosen by you, the readers of the Westmeath Independent

It was the public who nominated our winners in the first place, because they are, after all, the people who know them best.

The event is organised by the Rehab Group and reflects that organisation"s ethos. And its fitting that the town"s leading body, Athlone Town Council, is the main sponsor.

Enough of the suspense - to find out who has been honoured this year, check out our special supplement free with this week"s edition.