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23rd Aug 2015

Irish Redhead Convention Crowns King And Queen

The convention took place in Crosshaven, Co. Cork

Cathy Donohue

Crosshaven, Co.Cork was a hive of activity yesterday as people turned out for this year’s Irish Redhead Convention.

The convention was started by brother and sister Joleen and Denis Cronin who used to hold the competition at their family pub, Cronin’s.

However, it’s taken on a life of itself since it was first started six years ago and to date, it has raised over €20,000 for the Irish Cancer Society.

Venita Broderick and Ruairí the Dog at the Irish Redhead Convention this weekend in Crosshaven, Co. Cork. The Convention is a whacky, ginger-loving celebration of all things to do with red hair, while also raising awareness and funds for the Irish Cancer Society. Events included the crowning of the Redhead King & Queen, gingerbread man party, carrot tossing championships, ginger speed-dating, seminars, exhibitions and much more all themed around red hair. To find out more visit redheadconvention.ie Photo: Rory CoomeyVenita Broderick and Ruairí the Dog 

Speaking to the Irish Mirror, Joleen said: “About 10% of our population have red hair, so the stigma’s not quite as bad here.

“What’s great about things like this is it puts a positive spin on it and it’s not about the negative at all. It’s about instilling a sense of pride”.

During the convention, there’s a number of events including the red head darts competition, red head pub crawl oh and lest we forget, the music stage featuring red headed performers.

The King and Queen of the Redheads for 2015 were also crowned yesterday with Kerry man Alan Reidy named king and Gráinee Keena from Cork , taking the title of queen.

Alan Reidy (Blennerville, Co. Kerry) with Grainne Keena (Fermoy, Co. Cork)Alan Reidy (Blennerville, Co. Kerry) with Grainne Keena (Fermoy, Co. Cork)

Images via Rory Coomey.