A Laois man has been crowned the 16th Mr Personality at a Macra na Feirme annual competition.
Mountmellick native Andrew Dunne was named the winner after a contest involving people from across the country.
The annual Mr Personality Festival took place in the Talbot Hotel in Clonmel, Tipperary.
The festival was hosted by Kilkenny Macra and was sponsored by Kilkenny/Carlow and District Farm Relief Services.
The 23 contestants travelled from across the country to Clonmel for a fun-filled weekend.
On Friday evening, Andrew was interviewed on stage by MC Michelle Heffernan of Beat 102/103.
He entertained the audience with stories about his embarrassing moment, hobbies and interests.
He displayed his singing talents for the judges with a rendition of ‘Mockingbird Hill’, which was followed by music from ‘The Waxies’ and a DJ.
On Saturday morning, Andrew impressed the judges during his private interview.
Afterwards he proudly displayed his county colours while completing a ‘Mr Personality Bootcamp’ run by Kilkenny Macra members including wheelbarrow races, an obstacle course, and other team building exercises to show the judges what he was made of.
Judges for the weekend were Siobhán Woods, Liam Comerford and Barry Murphy.
The result was announced at 12 midnight on Saturday night after a Banquet Dinner Dance with entertainment from ‘Hot Fuss’.
Andrew is the fourth Laois man to win the Title in 16 years, a feat not yet matched by any other county but the Laois men.
In second place was James Cassidy from Ballincollig Macra (Seandún) and third place was Paul Gill from Longwood/Killyon (Meath).
Andrew was presented with €500 cheque, a perpetual cup and glass trophy. James Cassidy received a glass trophy and a cheque for €300 and Paul Gill received a glass trophy and cheque for €200.
All three winners received Vouchers for ‘Lunch for Two’ at the Talbot Hotel Clonmel.
Well done Andrew!
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