Introducing Barry The Bodhrán, Ireland's mascot for the U17 European Championships

A bodhrán called Barry will be the mascot for the UEFA Under-17 European Championships in Ireland.

Colin O'Brien, Clara Hogan and Barry the Bodhrán. Pic: INPHO/Bryan Keane

Barry The Bodhrán was designed by 11-year-old Clara Hogan, who won a nationwide competition among 5th- and 6th-class primary school students.

Hogan's winning entry was unveiled today at Tallaght Stadium by Republic of Ireland Under-17 head coach Colin O'Brien.

The student from Scoil Mhuire, Barntown, Co. Wexford, was also invited to be a player escort for Ireland's opening game of the tournament.

A press release said the unveiling begins the "drumming up of support" for May's tournament, which will take place at selected venues in Dublin, Longford, and Waterford.

Barry The Bodhrán will visit each of the tournament venues as well as local schools in the coming weeks to bring the message of 'Tomorrow’s Stars Today' coming to Ireland.

Tickets for the tournament will go on sale from Friday at 11am. Prices for adults start at €5, with all under-16s getting free entry for games.