At its 12^th Annual Dinner Dance at The Clarion Hotel, Gatwick on the 3^rd March, The Celtic and Irish Cultural Society (CICS) were pleased to announce that Rosie Keaveney, one of Crawley’s very popular community midwives, was the Crawley Irish Person of the Year 2007.

Carol Collins, Secretary of the Celtic and Irish Cultural Society took great delight in announcing that Rosie Keaveney was also Crawley’s first female Irish Person of the Year. Carol went on to explain:

Tonight history is being made as we are awarding Crawley Irish Person of the year to a woman for the very first time. This exceptional woman has neither required, nor desired, recognition for the many ways in which she contributes to the community of Crawley. For many years in her role as community midwife she has helped women of all ages and backgrounds to fulfil their dreams and make the fulfilling, yet sometimes difficult, transition to motherhood. To some of our more recent Irish migrants, far from home and family, she brings the personal touch and for that thousands of women will never forget her: she is one of the unsung pillars of the community

Rosie Keaveney was presented with a crystal vase, sponsored by the Bank of Ireland and flowers by the CICS committee. On receiving the award she said:

I am thrilled and delighted to be honoured by my fellow countrymen

The Dinner Dance, which helps to raise funds for the Crawley Irish Festival, was also honoured to welcome Patricia Brady from The Embassy of Ireland who congratulated the CICS on the work they did and proposed a toast to Ireland.

Post meal entertainment was provided by The Mullins School of Irish Dancing, who presented a stunning dance display and music was from the Mary Rose band.