Happy to hold handbags!

TWO lucky Southsiders have landed the best job in Ireland after they were picked to be among the 32 Newbridge Silverware Escorts at the Rose of Tralee International Festival in August.

Garda Rory O’Brien, from Lucan, and tree surgeon, Declan Snow from Glencullen (both 24), were chosen from more than 100 applicants for the coveted role.

Phil Donnelly of Newbridge Silverware, lead sponsor of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, said they were delighted to be involved.

“This is a natural fit for our brand since we continue to be associated with a host of Irish ambassadors, both male and female,

? he said.

“We wish each individual escort a most enjoyable and memorable festival experience.

?

On Monday, August 20 live on RTÃ? 1, one of the 32 escorts will be announced as the Newbridge Silverware Escort of the Year for 2012. He will walk away with a Prize Bonanza from Newbridge Silverware valued at over e10,000.

This will include: a cheque for e5,000, a complete set of silver-plated cutlery personalised with the winner’s family crest and the Gents Style Collection of watches and cufflinks.

Escort coordinator Colm Croffy said:

“The guys have proven their mettle as gentlemen who are happy to hold handbags, carry hairspray and lipstick for the beautiful Roses when they arrive in Tralee on Friday, August 17.

“All 32 Newbridge Silverware Escorts have been put through their paces at a gruelling, yet fun Boot Camp in Kerry before being given the final seal of approval to join the A-Team at the Rose of Tralee International Festival.

?

Among the class of 2012 to chaperone the 32 wonderful Roses are some gardaí, medical students, teachers, farmers and a nurse.

Each escort is currently seeking the support of local businesses in their community to provide them with the sponsorship that is necessary for them to complete the journey to Tralee.

Every year much time is spent selecting, training and inducting the gentlemen in their duties and requirements and the two-day Boot Camp in Kerry was a key factor in this process.

The lads took part in a gruelling trek over Ireland’s largest mountain, Carrauntoohill before setting up camp on Valentia Island.

Day two saw them take part in a range of water activities and fitness tests before returning to the new Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre to meet some of this year’s Roses.

“The Boot Camp puts the boys under some pressure and also teaches them team work and some discipline, all of which are qualities that are very much needed for festival week,

? said Colm Croffy.

Peter Sandes, the reigning Escort of the Year, said:

“Nothing can beat the enjoyment of being an escort at the Rose of Tralee. Lifelong friendships have been made with fellow escorts and, of course, the wonderful Roses.

?

The 2012 Rose of Tralee International Festival will begin on Friday, August 17 with the Gala Rose Ball. The televised selections, presented by Dáithí � Sé, will take place on Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 with the 2012 Rose of Tralee being presented with her Newbridge Silverware Tiara live on RTE 1 television on Tuesday night.