The prestigious Limerick Rose of Tralee competition is now into its 46th year, with 23 candidates chosen to vie for the 2008 title and possible entry to the international event in Tralee, later this year.

Among the chosen are, Katie Sugrue, from Halo Har Salon, Roches St and Rebecca O'Hare, from HSI College, O'Connell St.

Limerick can lay claim to two international winners, Dianne Hannigan in 1984, followed by Muireann Hurley.

Like last year, the 2008 Limerick Rose will go forward to contest the regional finals in Portlaoise on June 12-15.

Roses from 33 national centres will compete for the coveted six places to join the International Roses in Tralee on August 22-26.

Last year's international winner, Lisa Murtagh, travelled from New York to attend the Limerick launch, and was joined by the 2007 local winner, Melanie Carroll.

Lisa Murtagh

The 2008 Limerick Rose will not only have the honour of representing her city at the regional finals, but will receive a number of prizes, including euro 1,000 cash, Kerry Association Limerick Perpetual Rose Tiara, exclusive designer gowns sponsored by Fiona Whyte, Louise Kennedy designed Tipperary Crystal Rose Bowl, a presentation basket and a number of gift vouchers.

The Limerick final takes place at the Southcourt Hotel on April 18-19.

The Limerick-Kerrymen's Association have been organisers since the competition began.