Gaybo is the nation’s favourite for Áras

GAY BYRNE is the public’s preferred choice to be the country’s next president, an opinion poll has shown.

The veteran broadcaster comfortably topped a poll of potential and confirmed presidential candidates, making him the early favourite for the Áras.

The veteran broadcaster secured 28% of first-preference votes in the poll, seven points ahead of Labour’s Michael D Higgins who was in second place.