The Foynes Flying Boat Museum was one of two attractions on Ireland's west coast that have emerged triumphant in the 2007 Interpret Britain and Ireland Awards.  The Museum, along with The Atlantic Edge Exhibition at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, County Clare, were described as "magnificent" and "fascinating" by the prestigious award scheme run by the Association for Heritage Interpretation (AHI).

Popular Irish actor, Frank Kelly, presented the awards at a ceremony at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience on Monday 26 November.  Mr Kelly spent much time in County Clare during the filming of television series Father Ted. He said:

"Acting is all about telling stories and bringing people and places to life. So I am fascinated to see how heritage sites are using interpretation to tell stories, and inspire and excite people about history, culture and the environment. I'm especially delighted that two Irish sites have won recognition in these awards."

The report for the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, designed by Jack Harrison, said: "The museum tells a fascinating story that re-creates, through the quality of its interpretation, the ambience of a unique period in flying history."

A third award was won by Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, while commendations were given to five heritage sites in England. The awards recognise the very best examples of interpretation - the art of helping people explore and appreciate our world.

The award scheme, now in its 23rd year, is supported by English Heritage, the Countryside Council for Wales, and Scottish Natural Heritage.

Foynes Flying Boat Museum in Co. Limerick has been named as a winner in the 2007 Interpret Britain & Ireland Awards by the Association for Heritage Interpretation (AHI). Photo shows Aaron Lawton, Chairman, AHI (right) visiting Foynes Museum with Maurice Cronin, Director, and Margaret O' Shaughnessy. - Photo: Kieran Clancy / PICSURE © 26/11/07	The Foynes Flying Boat Museum delegetes who won an award for excellence in Interpretation; Martina Nicholson, Helen Enright, Jack Harrisson, Trevor Young, Joan Maher Margaret O Shaughnessy and Brian Cullen with Guest of Honor Frank Kelly, fifth from left, at the AHI Interpret Britain and Ireland Awards at the Cliffs of Moher, County Clare.
Foynes Flying Boat Museum in Co. Limerick has been named as a winner in the 2007 Interpret Britain & Ireland Awards by the Association for Heritage Interpretation (AHI). Photo shows Aaron Lawton, Chairman, AHI (2nd left) visiting Foynes Museum. - Photo: Kieran Clancy / PICSURE © 26/11/07	Frank Kelly presents the AHI Interpret Britain and Ireland Award to The Foynes Flying Boat Museum delegates, Brian Cullen and Jack Harrisson at the AHI Interpret Britain and Ireland Awards at the Cliffs of Moher, County Clare.