Tuam’s Derek is Galway’s Local Legend

By SIOBHÃÂN HOLLIMAN TUAM man Derek Cassidy has been hailed a Local Legend this week for his outstanding contribution to local fundraising and his dedication to improving the community. The father of four was nominated in TV3â€â„¢s Local Legend series, which features each month on the early morning show Ireland AM. Derek, who was a Tuam Person of the Year recipient in 2012, was nominated by fourth-class pupil at Cahergal NS Eliza Powell. She felt Derek deserved the award because of all the time and effort he spends on helping local groups and charities in the area. Derek, as part of Tuam Voluntary Force, has raised more than €180,000 for charities. He has also been a driving force in community campaigns, including Pieta House West, the Save Toghermore House committee and more recently, he has played a key role in the establishment of a Menâ€â„¢s Shed for Tuam. Ten-year-old Eliza got some time off school on Tuesday morning and was excited to meet presenter Noel Cunningham and get a behind the scenes experience of TV. Noel and the TV3 film crew spent a number o[private]f hours in the town and got to hear first-hand, the positive impact Derekâ€â„¢s enthusiasm and commitment have made on numerous organisations and individuals. While Noel has frequently travelled through Tuam he said it was the first time he had the chance to stop in the town, and his first impressions were high. â€Å“Iâ€â„¢m extremely impressed by the wonderful enthusiasm and community spirit that is in Tuam. I got the chance to meet with some of the local people and everyone has had such a great welcome. I wonâ€â„¢t bypass the town again!â€Â he remarked. Eliza is the daughter of Linda and Elton Powell and Linda was thrilled that her daughterâ€â„¢s nomination was chosen. â€Å“Derek really is a great hero and definitely a local legend,â€Â said Linda. Throughout May children from all over Galway city and county were invited to nominate their local legend. They had to explain what makes their local legend so special and draw a little picture of what they look like. Derek and Elizaâ€â„¢s story will feature on Ireland AM this Friday, May 31 at 8.15 am on TV3. [/private]