Rose of Tralee Keely O'Grady will be special guest at Longford Rose selection night in Longford Arms Hotel

The deadline for the Longford Rose is fast approaching and places for prospective Roses are going quickly.

The Longford Rose selection night is Saturday, January 25, and all girls between 18 and 29 are welcome to apply.

There are only four places left, so make sure to apply as quickly as possible.

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The current Longford Rose, Grace Kemple and the Rose of Tralee herself, Keely O’Grady will be in the Longford Arms Hotel on January 25.

Grace spoke about her experience as the Longford Rose. “I was selected as the Longford Rose on May 6, 2023. Since then, I have had many opportunities such as many events in Longford, the Rose Tour coming to Longford for the first time and the festival in Tralee.

“Since then I have travelled to different parts of the world with my fellow Roses and Escorts such as Germany and New York.

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“My highlights would have to be the parades, both the Parade in Tralee and marching in the New York St Patrick’s Day parade, both equally as special.

“I am so grateful to the businesses in Longford for the sponsorship they gave me, I was extremely well supported and I will never forget that. I was also so well supported by all my friends and family and I hope I have done you all proud,” she said.

She has been the Longford Rose for the past two years and is excited to pass the title on.

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“I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to do so, it is an amazing experience that I cannot recommend enough and I promise you won’t regret it.”

Steve Cronly, Longford Rose Co-ordinator. extended thanks to all their local sponsors and host sponsor Longford Arms Hotel, and media partners The Longford Leader and Shannonside Radio.

Galway Bay FM’s Ollie Turner will be the MC. He has long been affiliated with the Rose of Tralee. There will be prizes for 'Best dressed lady', 'Best dressed man' and 'Best Banner'.

There will be a raffle too with many prizes to be won. Those wishing to attend are urged to come early as tickets are almost sold out.

There will be a complimentary drinks reception from 6:30pm to 7:15 pm, sponsored by the Longford Arms Hotel. Tickets are €25 and will be available that evening. Doors open at 7pm. Show starts 7:30 pm.