A Lifetime All-Star Award for Cope's Denis

After almost half a century a Dungloe retailer is this week celebrating a national award for his dedication and commitment to the business world in West Donegal.
Next month, Denis Ward will complete his 50th year in the Men’s department in the Cope, in Dungloe.

Last Thursday, Denis was in Croke Park, at the annual Business All-Star awards where he was picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award.

“It is a fantastic achievement and an honour Denis truly deserved and is a worthy recepient,”said Crona Bonner, Marketing manager of the Templecrone Coop.
“He will be 50 years in the Cope, in May, and he has been in the same department since day one.
The Business All-Star Awards is annual event and is recognised a big event on the business awards calendar,
Over 1000, people representing 800 different companies and business right across the country were in Croke Park, for last Thursday’s awards.
Denis was accompanied to Croke Park, by his wife Delores, Mark Sharkey, CEO of the Templecrone Co-op, Jag Sanjha, Head of FInance, and Crona Bonner, the Marketing Manager at the Templecrone Co-op.
“We had a fantastic day. The Sam Maguire and Liam McCarthy Cups, were and there were people from all over the country were there.
“I met Johnny Buckley, the Kerry footballer. His family owns a big retail outlet in Killarney. I’m not a great one for days like that but I have to say, I really enjoyed last Thursday’s event.”
Denis a keen Gaelic footballer and athlete, Denis Ward, joined the Cope, in 1968.
“I joined the Cope in May, 1968, We (Dungloe)won the minor championship in ‘68,” said Denis.
“Eddie McCullagh was the manager and John Gallagher, John Fluke, was also working in the department when I joined.
“The 50 years have flown and I have to say, I have enjoyed every minute in the job.”
Denis retires in June.