May 2003
Rose of Tralee 2003: Derby Final | |
|  | | This year's finalists line up |
| | Twelve Irish beauties gathered at The Spot in Derby on Friday night in a bid to become this year's Rose of Tralee for Derby.
But who came out on top? |
| | | It was crowded, noisy and at times slightly chaotic, but this year's Rose of Tralee contest in Derby was a lot of fun for all concerned.
Taking place at The Spot function suite in the city centre, the contest saw 12 girls - each with an Irish background - go head-to-head in a battle to win the city title and go through to the England final in July.
The added incentive is that this year's England final will be taking place at Pride Park stadium - thanks to Derby's Nicola Norris taking the national title last year.
 Click here for pictures of the night.
Nicola herself was present for the event and was keen to point out that whilst she would be handing over her Derby crown tonight, she was 'still national Rose for another five weeks!'
 | | Lisa Forster |
Also returning for another try were finalists from last year's Derby contest, Lisa Forster and Joanne Fitzpatrick.
Lisa said: "I just fancied doing it again because I had a really good night last time. It's all good life experience. This'll probably my last attempt though."
Also competing was 20-year-old Patricia O'Reilly. She explained that her Grandad, who died seven years ago, had always wanted her to take part so this year she was doing it in his memory.
At 25, Deborah Quirk was the oldest entrant and said she'd decided to have a go after seeing her friend, Nicola, win it last year.
Nerves ran high in the preparation room as the event started.
Click here for pictures of the night.
Each girl faced an interview with the three judges - representatives from the Bank of Ireland, Irish Post and the Birmingham Rose of Tralee organisation.
Then came an informal chat with compere Dave Harvey - from BBC Radio Derby - before a rather more public conversation, on stage in front of the assembled masses.
After this came a brief break - with a most welcome buffet - before reconvening to hear the judges' verdict.
But who was chosen to be this year's Rose of Tralee for Derby? To find out, you'll have to follow our gallery by clicking on the link below.
The winner will now go through to the England final - which takes place on July 5th at Pride Park stadium.
Click here for pictures of the night.
Look back at our preview - with pictures of all 12 contestants.
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