Helen O’Callaghan: Leanne Reilly thrilled with skills on offer at Newtownforbes ICA

Leanne Reilly kick-started her ICA career last year by immediately entering the Longford heat of the Rose of Tralee contest.

The 20-year-old, who describes herself as the baby of Newtownforbes Guild, says members supported her 100% in her bid for the Longford Rose title.

“I said I’d represent them and they encouraged me to go for it. In the end I didn’t make it to Tralee — Kathleen Mahon went on to represent Longford.”