PROFILE: Meet the Laois Rose Entrant with pride for Portlaoise

Masters student Ellen Carroll Holland praised Portlaoise for its sense of community

A Portlaoise woman is proud to take part in this year's Laois Rose selection night.

Ellen Carroll Holland is 24 years old, and was born and raised in Portlaoise town. Ellen currently works for the Dalata Hotel Group, and was recently offered a place on her Masters course.

"I spent 3 years living in Galway City, studying English and Philosophy. After returning home to Portlaoise, I completed my Theological Studies in Maynooth," Ellen told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Pictured: Portlaoise based Laois Rose entrant Ellen Carroll Holland, sponsored by Coco's Quik Pick

"In the run up to the Laois Rose selection, I have been offered a place on my Masters course and intend to return to full time study!"

Along with her academic intelligence, Ellen loves to dedicate her time to learning new things.

"I am currently learning to play the drums and love to read and write in my spare time," she explained.

The Laois Rose entrant comes from what she describes as a large and close-knit family, and has said that spending time with them is 'her favourite thing in the world'.

Ellen had a lot to say about her pride in Portlaoise town.

"The town is close to my heart for a million reasons and running for Laois Rose has allowed me to platform my genuine trust and pride in our community and all it has to offer," she praised.

The Laois Rose Selection Night takes place in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Friday, April 18, when 17 entrants will be interviewed on stage by Ollie Turner, cheered on by their supporters in the audience.

The winner will then be announced who will take part in the televised International Rose of Tralee in Kerry this August.

The Leinster Express / Laois Live is the proud Media Sponsor for the Laois Rose Selection.

For more on the lead up to the Laois Rose selection night, keep an eye on the Leinster Express website!