Thousands send well wishes to cancelled Rose of Tralee festival

Thousands have sent well wishes to the Rose of Tralee International Festival in its absence this year, according to the Executive Chair of the festival.

This year's festival was due to begin today, but was cancelled in April due to COVID-19.

Sinéad Flanagan, who was crowned Rose of Tralee at last year's festival, will retain the title until the next edition of the event.

The Executive Chair of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, Anthony O'Gara, advises people to be positive and remember that the event is something special to celebrate in years to come.

Mr O'Gara says the outpouring of love for the festival on social media is extraordinary.