Frances has been instrumental to the administration of Birr 20|20 Vision since its conception in 2014, firstly as the Recording Secretary (and the individual that much of the group’s earlier public relations fell to), before joining the Board of Directors in 2024.
Frances is a native of Ballinasloe and a relative ‘newcomer’ to Birr, having moved to the town in 2005, following many years in a creative business (studio glass), firstly in London, followed by Dublin.
Taking time out to study graphic design in Athlone Institute of Technology, she was then free to become much more involved in community affairs. She attended (taking notes) the first of many meetings set up to promote among other things, a possible art venue in Birr. From these meetings the organisation that became Birr 20|20 Vision was conceived, and Frances was tasked with taking minutes for the next nine years!
Frances is heavily involved across a wide range of community groups sitting on Birr Vintage Week’s Committee and having organised their Visual Arts exhibits for several years. She also recently co-founded the Birr Crafters. Frances also actively participates on Crinkle’s Active Retirement Group, representing Older People on Offaly’s Age Friendly Alliance. She also sits on the Board of Co-operative Housing Ireland.
Frances is passionate about all things community – especially anything that involves collaboration or partnership.
