Jack and Carmel Burtchaell celebrated after 10,000 milestone
Pictured at the Granville Hotel, Waterford City was Jack and Carmel Burtchaell, who has given 10,000 tours, with Stephen Cotter, CIE, Noel Caffrey and Gavin Cahill. Photograph: Patrick Browne.
State transport company CIÉ honoured local Waterford walking tour guide Jack Burtchaell and his wife Carmel with a celebratory dinner following Mr Burtchaell’s completion of 10,000 walking tours.
Mr Burtchaell was hired by CIÉ in 1990.
CIÉ tours, the US-based subsidiary that sells Irish coach tour holidays in America, introduced the concept of walking tours in Ireland.
Waterford was the first location to roll out the scheme.
CIÉ estimates that Mr Burtchaell has toured with over 300,000 American guests over the past 35 years.
While Mr Burtchaell did the touring, Mrs Burtchaell oversaw administration and bookings.
“I’ve worn out a lot of shoe leather over the years, but it gives me great satisfaction to share the story of Waterford with people from all around the world," said Mr Burtchaell.
"We have a great history and a great story to tell,” he added.
He went on to highlight what his vision was from the start.
“I set out my mission statement in 1990, to make Waterford and its history the highlight of every coach group I meet," he said.
"Waterford people have made an immense contribution on the world stage," he added, highlighting the pride of people in the county.
“We are rightly proud of our Waterford crystal heritage, but we have so much more to be proud of," he said.
"People are waking up to the Gold Coast, the Greenway, and the fabulous offering that is Waterford City," he added.
“The Medieval Quarter has transformed the city and it is a privilege to make our history come alive and resonate with our visitors.
“CIÉ Tours was our first corporate customer, and their support was immense when Carmel and I set up Waterford Tourist Services. Their support over the years has been unwavering and we are delighted that our partnership continues to go from strength to strength.”
A Ferrybank native, Mr. Burtchaell has won CIÉ International’s 'Best Tour Feature' award six times, as well as a Special Merit Award 2007.
“Described variously as a seanchaí, an actor, a historian and a comedian, Jack’s deep love of Waterford shines through on his tours,” said CIÉ tours managing director Stephen Cotter.
“His immense historical knowledge, his sense of humour and his ability to tell a good story have made his tour an unforgettable part of their Waterford experience for our guests over the past 35 years," he added.
“Our partnership has been an amazing success.”
