The local publican Kevin Daly has spoken of his delight after being awarded North West Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2018 NW Business Awards, held at the City Hotel at the weekend.
Mr Daly is the owner of the Dungloe Bar, Tracy’s Bar in the city centre and the newly opened Daly’s Bar and Bistro in Shantallow.
Accepting his award at the ceremony, Kevin said: “This is such a shock. Thanks to everyone who nominated me, I’m delighted to accept this award. It’s a great achievement to win. I have had great staff and support helping me along the way and hope to keep expanding.
“I always knew Shantallow House had great potential and it’s been great to see it come to life again following our renovation. The local community have been really supportive as have the staff, regulars and our new clientele. I’m honestly dumbfounded at receiving this, I’m very grateful.”
Judges had applauded his determination, dedication and hard-working attitude. They noted his efforts as an example to those who are willing to put in the hard work needed to flourish as an entrepreneur.
Jim Roddy, Chief Executive of City Centre Initiative, which co-hosts the awards with Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said he was delighted for Kevin and all that he has achieved.
He added: “Kevin is a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Having started out stocking shelves in one of the local bars, he worked his way up to owning three successful pubs - the Dungloe, Daly’s and Tracy’s.
“Just recently he had the initiative to purchase Shantallow House and after a major renovation has totally transformed it into Daly’s Bar and Bistro, giving employment opportunities to many within the area.
“The Entrepreneur of the Year award seeks to define the qualities of successful entrepreneurship, from drive, ambition, vision and tenacity to inspirational leadership, inventiveness and confidence. Over the past year in particular Kevin has displayed all of these qualities in his pursuit to provide a quality entertainment offering to the local community.”
The ‘NW Entrepreneur of the Year’ award was sponsored by Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Business Support team which provides a range of services to help start-ups and SMEs grow.
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