CONSUMER COMMENTS

WHAT THEIR GUESTS SAID ABOUT THEM

(Alphabetical/Code order)

C-024 - Margaret & George Whitley, Schull

"This (B&B) acts as a good ambassador of the kindness and openness which helps to promote tourism in our country." Patricia Clements, Bray Co. Wicklow
"They just know when you need anything…. But it's also easy to be on your own in peace and quiet" Eva Bernhofer, Germany

"The room was always tidied for our return with clean towels and a change of linen also, during our stay of 6 days". Mr & Mrs P. Adamson, Kent UK

"They make you feel you are the most important person they have ever had to stay…" Oliver & Stella Nolan, Co. Dublin

"As a businessman I travelled through many countries. Very seldom I enjoy such hospitality. Really outstanding". Tom Wellhausen, Germany

C-041 - Anne & James Casey, Ballinhassig

"This time we found standards had slipped a little - but "Flushing Meadows could not be faulted in any way". Gail & Carl Hussey, New Zealand

"Very accommodating and service oriented with my family"…."let me use their kitchen on numerous occasions to fix dinners s for our children… but their genuine friendship and home-made rhubarb tart was the best thing of all" Darien & Dave Keane, Arizona, USA

"While other B&Bs 'rented' us rooms, Anne & James were the only ones to invite us into their sitting room to get to know us." Deborah C. Taylor, Georgie, USA

"They used their own car to take us into Cork City". A. Butler, New York City, USA
"And offered to collect us after the concert". Mr. & Mrs. Paul Greenan

"Gracious and friendly hosts". Neil J. McGettigan, Villanova, PA USA

"A real family home with a real family welcome". P & E Lowe, Liverpool

"Many a problem was solved over the kitchen table - not breakfast you understand - no, in the evening when most people are glad to see the back of their guests!" Hazel Bonnough, Derry

C-92 - Hilda Heinz, Beara, Cork

"Not only was it the cheapest B&B we have been to, but it also had the largest bedroom, complete with lounge chairs and TV. ..Evening meals were so reasonable - a 2-course meal with wine was ¤6.00 each! For our evening meal Hilda even went out and caught fresh fish in the bay". Jeanne & Ralph Bonner, Aghalee, Co. Antrim

She deserves the Award because of - "Her great generosity in offering every kind of help… including fresh food out of her own garden and fresh fish from the sea (caught by herself)…" Diane Da Cruz, Dublin

C-95 - Deirdre & Joe O'Connell, Ballylickey, Bantry, Co. Cork

"What was striking here was the blend and balance between anticipating our needs or wishes and allowing us the freedom of not being intruded upon"

…"She materialized outside the door of the restaurant as we emerged into a driving rain and it transpired she had been alerted that we were about to leave by one of the waitresses". Josephine Luibhéid, Claregalway

"Thanks to Deirdre and Joe's explanation of "nick-names" defining the specific families, we were able to locate my wife's grandparents roots." Douglas H. Ramsay, Virginia, USA

CE4 - Mary Ryan, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare

"Mary Ryan seemed to anticipate our every need… genuinely interested … and exceedingly helpful. We stayed at "Country Haven" three separate times and would not consider anywhere else if anywhere close to that area". Herb & Shirley Lee, Alaska, USA

"Breakfast included fresh strawberries from the garden, yoghurt and freshly brewed coffee. Without prompting Mary asked if we would like her to book our return flight to England through the internet, and booked a B&B in Dublin the night before our departure." Kathy & John Tapper, Christchurch, New Zealand

CE5 - Christine Joyce, Bunratty

"I find it ironic that this was the most luxurious place in which I stayed, yet it was the least expensive" Erin Gardner, Florida, USA

Catherine Roy - a guest from New Jersey, USA -wrote how when leaving 'Portdrine House' their rental car ran out of petrol a few miles on and resorted to phoning the Joyce''s. Brendan Joyce drove out with can of petrol and sent them on their way.

"Because of the high cost of car rental, I couldn't afford to hire car", said Pierre Jeijdendael from The Netherlands. "Christine offered me lift to Limerick and also Bunratty for the Banquet night." Not only that, Christine and Brendan provided lifts when they missed buses; when they wanted to sightsee, to do shopping and finally to Shannon Airport for the flight home.

CE52 - Bill & Phyllis Lowry, Bunratty

"This was my 5th trip and my best experience in a B&B". Doug Ellers, PA. USA

"They make their guests feel that they are not only a nameless number" Bernd Gesser, Germany

"This house offers a friendly warm atmosphere, gorgeous decoration and lovely owners who touched our hearts. " Ludmila Jelinkova, Czech Republic

"The house and interior are well thought out - each item unique - a spectacle to the eyes. There isn't one ordinary item." Neta Shermister, Israel

"Mr. Lowry showed a genuine interest in our stay in Ireland an in our lives back at home. He takes pride and pleasure in running the B&B - it doesn't feel like a business but a pleasure." Nick West & Tamsin Warner, London, UK

"They try to make you feel like you're home by being so accepting and generous. By far 'Fox Wald' has been the best B&B I have stayed at yet since being in Ireland." Josh Paradis, New Hampshire, USA

D-036 - Brendan & Paula Golden, Quince Cottage, Sandyford, Co. Dublin

"They care for you like a family member".Julia -Katharina Feller, Germany

"Visiting Dublin 2 or 3 times a year to see family members, we always stay at Quince Cottage. Brendan & Paula are always so welcoming and willing to help in any way… making contact with our family, passing on messages, holding keys…. " Mr & Mrs D. Redbond, Essex, England

"I had the impression that I'm more a friend than guest!". Brigitte Geinzel, Germany

"When I realized I wouldn't make it for the coach, Brendan personally transported me to the Stop" David Platt & Dinah Kenworthy, N. Yorks, England

"Brendan & Paula are very kind and their personal treatment was lovely during our entire stay. Everything was perfect. Excellent." Luis Sanchez, Barcelona, Spain

"We keep coming back because we and our two children are assured of quality accommodation, honest friendliness, beautiful food and overall it is a level above all other B&Bs. - no other compares". Tommy Gunning, Bandon, Co. Cork

D-4 - Phil Jones, 'Lazie Acres', Swords

"I have disability due to a stroke…. The extremes they went to - even putting handrail in the shower for me. Stayed 5 nights instead of two. Norah O'Connor, Queensland, Australia.

"Hostess drove us to the City - it meant we could leave our car at the B&B" Eva Ohlsson, Sweden

"The free golf was the icing on the cake". Cintia Noble, UT, USA

"It seemed as if (Mrs. Jones) was expecting us to drop in, when we simply came in off the road". Randy & Ruth Croken, Canada

"We arrived two stressed people and left feeling relaxed". Walter & Narelle Heiniger, NSW, Australia

"Loved their conversation and constant ability to provide us with all we needed…" Bev & Cal Chadwick, MN, USA

"Phil went out of her way to help with rental car and airline schule, saving us time and money". David J. Cook, Virginia, USA

"Excellent home for an excellent person indeed". Daniela Busto, Milano, Italy

D-6 - Colette Carter, Ranelagh

"Warm personal welcome and brewed coffee on arrival. Energetic nd hospitable on arrival and departure each day. Mr & Mrs. A. Bland, NSW, Aust

"From the moment we set foot in the door we were treated as one of the family….advised us on how best to visit all the places we wanted to see; Colette made us a home-cooked Irish loaf to take home. The place you stay in can make or break a holiday - and Colette's was First Class, ***** all the way! Mr. & Mrs. MP & PA Hammer, Dorset, England

"I truly feel Colette Carter takes a genuine interest in providing a restful and satisfying stay. She is extremely attentive and can provide invaluable insight into the City and its residents." Steve Lyon, Nevada, USA

"On arriving Colette alerted us to the "Pay & Display" in place and gave us a ticket for the car." Colm & Kathleen Nugent, Co. Armagh

"She represents Irish hospitality at its finest at affordable rates for ordinary visitors on a budget." Angie Blain, Idaho, USA

"Staying at Colette's family home adds some poetry to the trip to Ireland!" Cintia Russo, Treviso, Italy

D-41 - Roy & Deirdre Skinner, 'Lima House'. Malahide

"They deserve this Award because of its awesome setting overlooking large peaceful garden where the welcome, warmth and genuine concern for one's welfare is of paramount concern and nothing is too much trouble." Elzabeth McClelland, London

"Roy & Deirdre welcomed us into their beautiful home 3 years ago… been six times since and toured all over - never finding a better B&B than this!" Anne & Paddy Quinn, N. Lincolnshire, England

"We felt that our host was very genuinely interested in our comfort and needs. Roy provided free transport down to the Village and to the airport. Very much appreciated. Dr. & Mrs. Kevin O'Brien, Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand

D-90 - Alvis Crawford, 'Great Keppel", Portmarnock

"In Dublin for a friend's surprise 40th birthday party, I was tired after the journey - as I was awaiting an operation for my bad knee. Alvis fully understood how I felt and plied me with tea and biscuits all afternoon while I rested in my room. I did manage the party and to my surprise breakfast in bed was sent up the next morning…. Down to the little posy of flowers on my breakfast tray. Her effort turned my disaster into an opportunity to shine." Lyn McManus, Lanarkshire, UK

In Ireland to attend a wedding, Vivienne & Howard Bowden from Bretange, France, were upset because their luggage with wedding outfits didn't arrive. On reaching 'Great Keppel' Alvis' practical reassurance and help was very much appreciated. "It was Alvis' brainwave next day to go to airport that saved the day…. Ray very kindly drove us - the luggage had arrived and we were able to go to the wedding in our own clothes and on time."

DL4 - Barbara Bonner 'Dry Arch', Glenties, Co. Donegal

"Friendliness and good Irish humour makes you want to return here." Maureen & Michael Conroy, Portlaoise

"Barbara seems to know exactly what the guests require for a happy stay. Nothing is too much trouble for her." Cathy Haycock, West Midlands, UK

"If home was like this you would never leave it!" Ross Hussey, Co. Tyrone

"There is no bounds to which this family wouldn't stretch to make our stay enjoyable: dropping us into town to a pub, so that we could drink and not worry about driving. Catering for our dietary requirements: one vegetarian and one Nut Allergy sufferer. Super Value!" Thomas McGlone, Co. Meath

Dee & Sharon Byrne of Co. Meath describe the extent of Barbara's kindness when Dee's brother got married in Glenties; from ironing shirts and dresses, provision of teas and coffees for extended family and contributing to pre-Wedding preparation with laughter and craic. In addition, Barbara supplied white bag and shoes when Dee realized she had left her's at home! "Definitely will be back; better than any 5 star hotel!", says Dee.

DL12 - Patricia Guthrie, "Steeple View", Ballybofey

"The offer of tea and sandwiches on arrival, the comfort, cleanliness and facilities left little to be desired. The room space, hair dryer, lighting, breakfast selection and food quality completed a relaxing and enjoyable one night stay." Elzpeth & Ray Steele, NSW, Austalia

"Every facet of our stay was exceptional every request granted and then some. Patricia made exceptions for my diet (vegetarian) offered late night nacks, assisted with our itinerary. She is a great Ambassador for Irish hospitality and an invaluable member of your Association." Alden & Lynn Peterson, North Carolina, USA

"Mrs. Guthrie presented a very warmhearted, helpful, personal welcome and stay. It was obvious that she loved/loves her B&B the way she treated us and showed us around… Much higher standard than most hotels! I am impressed by the Guthrie's" Gabriele Giese, Aachen, Germany

G-30 - Cepta Stephens "Inchagoill House", Oughterard

"All was really perfect and I enjoyed everything so much!" Sali Chiara, Firenze, Italy

"You could not find any fault with this family or house. We make a point of routing to this area for one reason ONLY - 'Inchagoill House'!" Catherine Eader, Co. Kildare

"Ireland needs more places like this". Ivan & Teresa King, Middlesex, UK

"Our hostess and her husband gave us a lot of time, explaining what we can see and where to go. We had dinner too and it was better than good. Cepta phoned to reserve place for the show. Wonderful hospitality - cheerful and friendly." Marie Frederic Rouichac, France.

"They represent Irish hospitality in all things they do: cooking, talking, helping us to find out information. It was also the best relation between COST and QUALITY!". Beatrice Sandri & Davide Cervellin, Milano, Italy

G-77 - Eithne & Joe O'Halloran, 'An Grianan Oirbsin', Srue

"Homey welcoming family and our host Joe, took us fishing on Lough Corrib for a wonderful first ever experience at Irish fly fishing. 'Above and beyond' in our view." Ross & Susan McKay, Canada

"This family treated us as one of the family straight away - each member adding their own touch of charm. As this was our first visit to Ireland, first impressions really did count." Mrs. B. Ogden, Ainsworth, England

"Overall the perfect B&B, with very kind people". Arthur Dillon & Nanda de Grost, Holland

"A beautiful home and decoration, warm hospitality, exquisite breakfast, smell of roses, the garden and the flowers, the family and the dog; the relaxing music and all that this home entails leave us with lovely memories of Ireland. We will soon return here." Rosa de Eugenio & Ramon Rorine, Grona, Spain

Lady Sharon Gail Parnaby of Snape Castle, North Yorkshire, no stranger to hospitality and expectations herself, wrote: "The welcome, friendliness and attention to detail and sheer quality of their beautiful home and grounds is far superior to many B&Bs - it's more like a 5 star hotel, but better because of the personal touch."

G-92 - Eithne & Sean Horan, 'Cornerstones B&B', Moyard

"The motto Arrive-Relax-Enjoy is completely true. Have seen many B&Bs, have never been more enthusiastic: Wonderful!! All of this at very reasonable prices: great value for money." Kees & Gertrude Meirema-Findery, The Netherlands

"Waited up for us until midnights (as we were late getting in from Dublin), and made us tea and something to eat." Phil Kensall, Isle of Man, UK

"(Cornerstones) is really excellent! We stayed in Dublin, Belfast, L'Derry and along the West Coast up to here, where we found surely the best B&B, also the better price." Mr. & Mrs. Stranges, Stefano, Italy

"It has a warm relaxed welcome and offers packed lunches for walks in the amazing area". Cliona O'Flaherty, Santry, D.9

"They really made effort to make the stay perfect, and for our 17 month son too. One could not expect more from Sean & Eithne Horen - it was just perfect!". Patrik & Liselotte Andersson, Sweden

"Cornerstones B&B' is certainly a beautiful comfortable home with fantastic scenery all around, for that relaxing time we all just dream of. Everything was 'par excellance' and the warm hospitality of the host second to none." Grahame & Ayne-Marie Leitch, United Arab Emerites

"In their professionalism they have not left out the most important ingredients - hospitality, warmth, charm and smiles. Our stay with Sean and Eithna was perfectly delightful. Oh - ad Eithne's cooking - superb!" Dr. Reg & Kerrie Poole, Victoria, Australia

KE-7 - Patricia Doyle, 'Blackrath Farmhouse', Colbinstown

"The hostess was warm and friendly. The home was warm and inviting. The location was central to many interesting sights and the peacefulness was relaxing." Val Bosman, WA, Australia

"This is the first time I have been inclined to complete this form and that is down to the first class accommodation at Blackrath Farmhouse. We have been touring Ireland on holidays for 15 years and feel that we must comment on the high standard of this B&B." Sheila and John Kissane, Lincs. UK

"Crisp cotton/linen sheets and everything that's required for personal hygience, including shower gel", did it for Mrs. Gillian Rumbelow of Lincoln, UK. "In general a peaceful environment due to décor and decoration. Excellent breakfast presentation - good cutlery, willow pattern pottery, pristine linen tablecloths and well cooked and presented healthy option breakfast with personal choices respected and provided."

"First time in Ireland, we were overwhelmed by the friendliness and warm hospitality of our landlady and her husband". Family Fischer, Switzerland

"Because Patricia, she is so kind, and she smile all the time…. Her B&B is so clean… and beautiful and the flowers, the tree… the cow. If we came back to Ireland, we come to visit here". Haya & Haim Tzur, Israel.

"One feels very quickly not to be a stranger, which is of course the top benchmark of a excellent B&B". James Webb, Brisbane, Q'land, Australia

KY27 - Nora Sheahan, 'Millstream House', Listowel

Fisherman Stephen White from Co. Kildare, is a regular visitor to Nora and Jim over the last 3-4 years: "She will have the table set for me and my companions for tea and toast early at 4.30 -5.00 a.m. She also offers us sandwiches and scones to bring to the river whilst fishing".

"Nora's husband leaves all guests in to town and collects them when they are ready to come home. Everybody is treated like royalty." Mary Smyth, Castlepollard (2) Janet & Gerry Kent, Port Kennedy, W. Aust and (3) Gillian Ryalls, W. Australia

"They were very welcoming. We were very late to arrive, tired and hungry and did not have the energy to go out. Jim made us tea, served us excellent home made breads, butter and jam which we ate in the wonderfully huge homey kitchen." Hellmut & Brigitte Walter, Salem, S.C. USA

"The home-made brack Nora makes is delicious, also the cakes, buns and apple tarts are lovely and fresh. You couldn't get it anywhere, only at Sheahan's. She is so very friendly and kind to everybody." Nellie Healy, Moylough, Co. Galway

"I really enjoyed my stay there. It is the nicest and most generous and welcoming B&B I have ever stayed in." Noreen O'Mahony, Cork

""When Mr. Sheahan heard that one of our sons (a railway man) was particularly interested in the Listowel monorailway, he drove us to it to take photographs. He then drove us the ten miles to see Ballybunion. Our guests had never been to the West of Ireland before, so this was a wonderful introduction for them on the first day of our holiday!" Mr. & Mrs. H. Dixon, Cambridge, UK

KY48 - Nancy Tangney, 'Leefarm House', Tralee

""The mother of all living" - lucky people who come under her care". Heather Lyons, New Zealand

"We went for one night and stayed for four! Iadmired the bedlinen and she said she would purchase some for me while I was enjoying the countryside." Brenda Catterson, Ilkeston, Derbys. UK

"We have just spent three days with Nancy and could not praise her more. She was very kind and caring and the homely atmosphere and excellent food and service was overwhelming." Nick and Helen Schisas, Queensland, Australia

"…We really enjoyed the home-made apple tart and tea every day during our stay with Nancy. We had our 11 year old granddaughter with us and she too had a great time…. We have stayed about 12 nights this year in B&B from Mayo to Waterford, but Nancy's was the best." Eugene & Anne Egan, Thurles

"Nancy is a warm and caring woman who gives each one of her guests 100%…. She collected us at the bus station …. She had prepared sandwiches, tart and coffee for us in the garden. My husband who is Spanish really felt the true sense of what Irish hospitality is. Aisling Treacy Cárdenas, Cartagena, Spain

KY80 - Eileen Doherty, 'Denton', Tralee

"It was clean. Cleaner than anywhere we have stayed yet. She had great rooms - warm, comfortable and we had a very good sleep." Nicole Best, NSW, Australia

They deserve this Award because… "of the owner's kindness and permanent smile and the perfect service in all senses - cleanliness, hospitality, comfort, quietness and superb breakfast." Rocio Garcia, Barcelona, Spain

"Compared to other B&Bs we rate her ten out of ten." Robertson & Janke Dommisse, South Africa

"It was very apparent this family really enjoys meeting people and whole-heartedly embraces the B&B experience. Eileen and her husband are warm friendly and genuinely interested in ensuring their guests are well-cared for." Cheryl Thompson/Mike Lovatt, Nova Scotia, Canada

"The bedroom and bathroom was immaculate. The linen and towels spotless….After a lovely holiday we can't waiting to return." Stuart & Dawn Addis, Worcester, UK

MO68 - Kathleen & Brendan Kelly, "Lakeland", Foxford, Co. Mayo

"We have traveled throughout Ireland over the past 2 years and stayed in many B&Bs. We felt Kay & Brendan's hospitality and friendliness was truly genuine. They work together and enjoy what they are doing." Craig & Sarah Moore, Maynooth, Co. Kildare & Oregon, USA.

"The level os welcome and service was fabulous…" Mr. & Mrs. B. J. Walker, Isle of Wight, UK

"Nothing is too much trouble to make us feel completely welcome and totally at ease in their lovely home.. As fishermen, our comings and goings can be early or late …. Kathleen just sorts us out like a loving mother would." David Gladman, Congleton, UK

"They have provided an Irish welcome which the beautiful country of Ireland should be proud of. The advice they gave…ensured we have seen some of the most beautiful sights (Mayo) has to offer." Katie Anne Walker, Isle of Wight, UK "This is our first trip to Ireland and found it to be a very 'special place' - made even more special by our stay in Lakeland, and our hosts Brendan and Kathleen." Mr. & Mrs. Peter Walker, Isle of Wight

"Mr. & Mrs. Kelly are a real credit to Foxford, Ireland and indeed, the (Family Homes of Ireland) brochure." Rob Green, Watford, Herts, UK

T-21 - Peter & Eileen Blundell, "White Villa", Golden Cashel, Co. Tipperary

"As our first trip to Ireland myself and two children were made extremely welcome and comfortable. Highly recommended" Mrs. Hazel Touch, Llandovery, Wales

"I have seen some other B&Bs but this was the most beautiful one." Maria Kollat, Budapest, Hungary

"Our plans were almost completed (to travel to Germany) when we received a St. Patrick's Day surprise from White Villa …. To be remembered in such a thoughtful way drew us back (to Ireland)….This B&B deserves an Award because it truly offers all the comforts of home with the sincerity and consideration travelers are seeking for a memorable vacation" David & Laura Ulitsch, NH, USA

"We found hotel quality at B&B prices.. their service is something needing to be experienced to be able to appreciate." Carol & Brian McKee, Bangor, Co. Down

"Very friendly couple who obviously love what they do". Dorothy Lalor, Dunboyne, Co. Meath

"We felt very safe in White Villa - as OAPs that was very important to us." Jim & Maura Marsh, Dublin 16

Harry Davison from Epsom, Surrey wrote how after painful treatment for skin cancer he was advised by his Consultant to go on holiday.. "Of course, I jumped at the chance of going to White Villa - it is a beautiful home and we love it there."

"We have stayed at many B&Bs but this has to be one of the best for cleanliness, presentation, service and concern for any needs during our stay." Brian & Linda Boardman, Lancashire, UK

WD2 - Maureen Reynolds, "Comeragh View", Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

Regina & René Treier from Swizerland sent in two typed pages detailing reasons for nominating Tony & Maureen Reynolds. The most important points detail the quality of their welcome, the supply of soft towels on a daily basis, clothes washed and ironed; their partiality to Irish Potato Salad, which Maureen made specially for them; excellent Irish Coffee and Tony & Maureen's natural helpfulness. "Conclusion: when making plans for the holidays… in the end we would agree again: let's go back to Ireland and principally to Maureen & Tony".

"I am saddened to only have one night here at Comeragh View. If ever given the opportunity to visit Ireland again I would definitely make my way back to Maureen and Tony." Linda lepoutre, Murrieta, CA, USA

"We felt so comfortable and loved that we decided to spend another day at Maureen's" Birgit Siara & Jens Urmann, Heidelbury, Germany

"She showed us the true spirit of Ireland, the smile, the friendliness and the great sense of humour that I came to expect from your lovely country." Amy Awanson & Family, Alberta, Canada

"Maureen (and Tony) Reynolds made our 9-day stay one of our best experiences of Ireland in our 40 years of visiting Ireland!" Mr & Mrs. R. C. Payne, Hants. England

"I think the difference is they make you feel like friends, and that their B&B isn't just run as a business, but they take a real pride ensuring that people enjoy their holiday". Mr & Mrs. E. Lloyd, Southampton, UK

WD7 - Brian Wickham, "Cairbre House", Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

"I didn't know was a FULL Irish Breakfast was till 'Cairbre House' " James Fareason, Mandeville, LA, USA

"Brian noticed a guest's car tyre going flat, he pumped it up with his foot pump. In lieu of (v. early) breakfast on our last night, he prepared a "gourmet" packed breakfast." John & Mary Davies, Walsall, W. Mids, UK.

"We (4 people from Norway) spent a week in Ireland, taking advantage of the excellent B&B system. Brian Wickham was the winner!" Svein Milford, Bergen, Norway

"As we were leaving he presented me with a loaf from his freezer…. We tour all over the world and have never had such hospitality!" Mr. & Mrs. Walker, Alicante, Spain

"We had never heard of Dungarvan, however now it is indelibly etched in our memories…We will never forget early one morning, from our bedroom window, the sight of Brian in the rain, coat over shoulders, collecting fresh herbs from the garden for breakfast dishes."

WW20 - Edna Crammond, "Rockfield", Avoca, Co. Wicklow

"She makes everyone feel very special and has such a genuine charming personality and one is privileged to know her and spend time in her beautiful home. The effort which she puts into the preparation and presentation of the food is amazing." John M. Knowles, Ballymena, Co.Antrim

After a week's stay, Mr. & Mrs. J. Reeve from Kings Lynn, Norfolk, had this to say: "You couldn't wish to meet more friendly and welcoming people…. That's why we keep going back. What better recommendation?"

"Edna gives so much of herself - we had home-baked cake or tart for our supper each night (quietly placed in our room), the croissants for breakfast freshly baked by Edna each morning as well as home baked wheaten bread." Mrs. G. M. Hatch, Dunmurry, Belfast

"We left 'Rockfield' feeling rested and relaxed and ready to face the long trip back to London. We are still in the after-glow of a fabulous stay. We recommend Edna unreservedly for the Award." T & L Sampson, London

"Edna's meals are made from home-grown produce from her husband's farm and they are all served tastefully and decorated with herbs and a half strawberry from her garden". Mr & Mrs Tom Shepherd, Co. Down

"The white tablecloth for breakfast was spotless, silver cutlery was an added luxury and attractive china. Home-made hot croissants, wheaten bread and honey on the comb all added to the luxury. Maureen & Trevor Kennedy, Bangor, Co. Down

"Stunning view, beautiful spacious room, delicious fresh breakfast and Edna's attention to detail and care of her guests, gave us a great holiday - can't wait to get back to "Rockfield". J.& S. Glass, Ballymena, Co. Antrim

WW39 - Bridie Gleeson, "Monavalla", Blessington, Co. Wicklow

"Our award goes to Bridie - because not only the location in a hill overlooking the lake was astonishing, the warm reception, outstanding breakfast and great indications for the coming days visits, but the hospitality in itself it represents the spirit of a family home." Bruno & Carmen Hallé, Barcelona, Spain

"Bridie was very warm and friendly. It is thoughtfulness that makes Bridie outstanding and which leaves us with an everlasting impression of the Irish friendliness warmth and generosity." Heather Bigley, Stoke-on-Trent, UK

"They spent a whole day helping me and my travel partner to sort out difficulties - phoning the airport, the tourist office in Cork, booked us a room in Cork, and even brought us to the bus in Kildare (40 kms). …. They lent me a pair of walking shoes and scarf and asked their nephew to fix the front (bumper) of my car…" Dominik Vogt, Königsbach, Germany

"Bridie & Paddy are very special hosts. As a guest you can feel like home or even better. They try to read wishes from the eyes of their guests." Bernd König, Bonn, Germany

"Suggest you show Bridie's B&B to some people in the Galway area (the ones with the green Shamrock!) Up there they seem to be after your money only and forget to offer you service too." Erich Zeh, Munich, Germany

"This home is a glowing example of Ireland at its best". Mrs. A. J. Guest, Brierley Hill, W. Midlands

WW41 Mary & Michael Cullen, 'Pinewood Lodge', Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

"It has everything a good B&B needs: beautiful bedrooms and a great breakfast, and - even more imporant - hosts who help to plan the further journey or with any other problems." David Altaneier, Köln, Germany

"From first email which was promptly answered to our departure, Michael and Mary made us most welcome in their beautifully appointed and spotlessly clean home." Mr. & Mrs. Rodger Clark,Greenock, Scotland

" An extra pillow was provided without asking. The owners brought us to the bus - again without our having to ask. Excellent B&B!" Henny Kok, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

"The proprietors run the accommodation in a very efficient and unobtrusive manner; they and their family are friendly and helpful. The property is maintained to a high standard of decoration and cleanliness and every effort made to meeting requirements of guests." Howard & Linda Jones, Anglesey, UK

"We only eat Kosher. Mary helped us. The family was very nice and we talk together about Israel." Bloom, Moreshet, Israel

Christine Birchall from Ormskirk, Lancashire wrote an astounding letter: her husband had an accident in Wicklow and taken to Intensive Care at Beaumont Hospital. "They (Mary and Michael) drove down to Wicklow to pick up our car. They stayed with me until my daughter arrived from England and rang me every day to see if there was anything I needed or anything they could do. Sadly my husband did not survive his accident. Mary and Michael telephoned regularly and flew over to England for Geoff's funeral."

Christine and family have subsequently been back to visit the Cullens and describe a continued and loving friendship.