Áine McGee to represent Dungloe at the Mary from Dungloe Festival '24

Áine McGee will represent her native Dungloe at the Mary from Dungloe International Arts Festival next year. The announcement was made at an event which was held at McCafferty's traditional bar and restaurant on Thursday night. 

The 22-year-old was chosen from a selection of six contestants whom Áine said were 'all deserving' of winning. The event saw the six girls being interviewed by three judges before they made their decision. 

MC on the evening, Gavin Boyle, said the judges had a tough job but it was one that unfortunately had to done.

Áine said: "They were a lovely group of girls - all of them deserving to win. The festival was the highlight of my year as I grew up in Dungloe." 

Last year's winning Mary from Dungloe, the Dubai Mary, Adele Morgan was present for the announcement. She described the festival as being the best week she ever had. Living in Dubai, Adele said the school she works in celebrated her win by making a presentation to her. She said that she is spreading 'the word internationally' about the festival. 

The long-running festival began in 1967 and is exceptionally popular with locals and tourists. The festival has grown from strength to strength over the years. The 10-day festival usually takes place on the final week in July.