Clare Rose takes home the hearts of the nation

HOST KATHRYN Thomas and many more across the nation watching this year's Rose of Tralee were moved to tears by the story of the Clare Rose.

Aisling O'Connor, a primary school teacher from Feakle, lost the crown to New York Rose Róisín Wiley, but won the hearts of the nation at her grace and resiliance in the face of tragedy.

Aisling and her five younger brothers lost their father Pat in 2018 in a tragic accident, and just three years later, their mother Denise died from breast cancer in 2021, after beating a previous diagnosis in 2004.

The 25 year old paid tribute to their local community in Feakle, who rallied around the siblings and since 2021, have left dinner at the gate "every single day".

Clare Rose, Aisling O'Conner, shared her family’s tough story #RoseofTralee | Read more: https://t.co/ACXaLYBKG0 pic.twitter.com/61Lb55izsc

— Entertainment on RTÉ (@RTE_Ents) August 22, 2023

"There have been vouchers left, there have been bags of shopping, electricity bills paid and always somebody on the end of the phone," Aisling said.

Many items came with no name attached, and no need for thanks. There was even a fridge strapped to a gate post to allow neighbours to provide for the siblings, while still allowing them space to grieve.

For Aisling, the Rose of Tralee celebrates what it means to be Irish, and she said her community epitomises that every single day.

"I think that's what being Irish is," Aisling said. "It's no man left behind. It's community spirit."

"We are very much supported, we are never alone. I know they love us as much as we love all of them."

The Feakle community have rallied even further to the O'Connors, as Peppers Bar and Restaurant in the East Clare village was packed to the rafters for Aisling's tv appearence.

Support poured out last night across social media also. Breda Collins, a Feakle local, took to Twitter to say: "Here in Feakle filled with pride and love for our Clare Rose of Tralee Aisling O Connor. We love you and the boys beyond words".

Here in Feakle filled with pride and love for our Clare Rose of Tralee Aisling O Connor. We love you and the boys beyond words. Well done you are amazing #roseoftralee

— Breda Collins (@BredaCollins17) August 22, 2023

Aisling's five brothers were in the audience on Tuesday night as she offered her deepest thanks to every person who has helped them over the tough few years they have gone through.

While the 2023 Rose of Tralee Crown will ultimately be winging its way back to New York with Róisín Wiley, Aisling O'Connor certainly remains a winner in the eyes of her native Banner county.