All Rosey for escorts as fee replaces sponsorship

BUDDING escorts feeling the recession pinch will be relieved with news that even the cost of getting close to a Rose is plummeting.

Up to now, any man anxious to partner a Rose at the annual Rose of Tralee festival had to find sponsorship of €2,500 to enter the escort competition.

But organisers of this year’s festival — which celebrates 51 years — have announced that all potential companions need to do is pay a modest fee of just €75 to enter the competition.

Organisers behind the August festival announced the search to find 32 young male escorts for the Roses yesterday and the new flat-rate entry price.

Oran Boyle, who has been an escort for the past two years, described the experience as among the best in his life.

“The week was filled with great events such as the Rose Ball, the parades and the selection nights — each day and night was a brilliant experience. The atmosphere during the week was electric, not to mention the craic with all the other escorts and all the Roses.

“There is truly a great social side to the festival, even when the week is finished. I have made many friends in different parts of the world as a result of meeting them at the Rose of Tralee.”

So, have you got what it takes? Firstly, you need to be aged between 21 and 30 years of age.

Wannabe escorts are also being advised they need to be well-mannered and have a great sense of humour and of course, be a gentleman.

Closing date for applications and the new fee is April 30.

www.roseoftralee.ie