Italian Rose withdraws from duties over eating disorder

ROSE of Tralee Tamara Gervasoni, who was arrested on suspicion of shoplifting, has withdrawn from her official duties because of an eating disorder. The 22-year-old Italian was arrested in a shopping centre in Longford on Tuesday night.

“She has taken this decision as she has decided to seek medical help and counselling regarding an eating disorder,” said a festival spokesperson.

Festival manager Siobhan Hanley said the incident on Tuesday was most upsetting for Ms Gervasoni, whom she described as a fantastic ambassador for the festival.

“However, she now needs all of us to show our understanding and support,” Ms Hanley said.

The Rose was not available for comment yesterday and the festival appealed for privacy and space for her and her family. Ms Hanley also said Ms Gervasoni wanted to thank everyone for their support and looked forward to resuming her duties.

“She wishes to make this issue public as she is aware of the need to highlight this secret disease and its devastating consequences,’ Ms Hanley said.

Ms Gervasoni, the first Italian entrant to win the prestigious title in the festival’s 44-year history, has a busy schedule of engagements. She was due to open a new Sam McCauley pharmacy in Tralee next Thursday.

A key part of Ms Gervasoni’s role as Rose is to promote the festival and the country at home and overseas. She was arrested by gardaí in a Longford shopping centre for the alleged shoplifting of an item worth less than €50 and was later released without charge.