Local singer withdraws from Glór Tíre final

Glasson singer Tilly Dawson-Stanley has withdrawn from the Glór Tíre final which takes place on TG4 tonight (Tuesday).

Tilly, who was being mentored by singing star Cliona Hagan, will not feature in the finale of the TG4 county music competition, following a breach of Covid-19 guidelines during a live stream on Facebook last Sunday.

The talented Westmeath woman said those involved were socially distanced, but this wasn't fully visible on camera and she accepts that complaints were made.

Tilly explained that she is "closely related" to the Sheerin family and she has been visiting and helping to care for her grandaunt Mary, whom she described as "like a second granny" when she was growing up.

Due to the regular contact with Cliona and the latter's fiancé, Tang native Simon Sheerin, Tilly did not think that Sunday's live show would involve any risks.

"Cliona herself, Simon and I regularly get Covid tests to secure the safety of myself and those around us," said Tilly.

"We were socially distanced, apart in a triangle, however this was not as visible as we would have wished on camera. I have recently been informed that some people were not happy about this live show and I have received some complaints," she said.

Tilly works for the Health Service Executive (HSE) and she said: "With the line of work I’m in, I hold Covid as one of the most important things at these times and due to this reason, I have made the decision to withdraw from Glór Tíre.

"I want to thank my wonderful mentor Cliona who was only doing her best for me and thank everyone else who has supported me through the competition. I wish the remaining two contestants the best of luck.

"This is only the beginning of a long journey for me," Tilly added.

A spokesperson for the show said: "It is our duty to ensure the safety and well being of the crew, cast and other competitors taking part in the programme.

"We are deeply saddened at the loss of a great competitor, but it is essential for everyone’s safety that all guidelines are followed to keep everybody safe.

"We wish Tilly all the best in the future," the spokesperson added.

Local interest in the final (TG4, 9.30pm) will now revolve around Emma Donohue, who is from Killoran, close to Ballinasloe.