Miss Derry 2016 crowned

This morning, Kiera Doherty, who was the overall winner, was back behind the counter in the Kitchen restaurant in Letterkenny where she works.

Kiera, 19, said she was overjoyed to have won.

“I can’t believe it, I’m so shocked and delighted. I couldn’t even believe that I had made it into the final so I never ever thought I’d win it. It’s unbelievable,” she said.

Kiera said she will now speak to organisers about the Miss Ireland competition, which she will progress onto.

Although she is from Letterkenny, the latest Miss Derry winner said she has strong links to the city,

“I have family there and some of my friends go to college in Derry. I was delighted that we were able to do some charity work for the Rainbow Rehoming Centre too because I have a passion for animals and I think it’s a great cause.”

Kiera had praise for her fellow contestants too.

“The other girls were amazing and so supportive. I’ve definitely made some friends for life,” she said.

The first runner-up in the competition was Emer McAteer, while Rebecca Duddy was the second runner-up on the night,