Ballinderry country star Cliona Hagan set for TV hosting role

The stunning Tyrone native will co-host the show, which will feature Nashville country greats Mo Pitney and the legendary Larry Gatlin.

Irish TV will honour country music stars in 10 categories including Best Male, Best Female, Best Video, Songwriter of the year, Country Music Venue of the year, Single of the Year, Album of the Year, Country Music DJ of the Year, Newcomer and Hall of Fame – all based on over 75,000 public votes.

27-year old Cliona’s first two singles, ‘We’re All Gonna Die Someday’ and ‘Cowboy Yodel’ received acclaim on Irish and UK radio stations and, ahead of her debut album this summer, she has just started a national tour with her new band.

“I am absolutely thrilled and cannot believe I am getting this opportunity. This is a dream come true for me, especially as Irish TV is such a popular TV station, not just in Ireland but all over the world,” said Cliona.

“Music has always been a big part of my life. We were always encouraged to sing at home as a family and having such a diverse musical background means I can move easily from genre to genre to keep things fresh.”

The trained opera singer shot to fame on the All-Ireland talent show on RTE when, under the guidance of Dana, she reached the final singing You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Cliona, who has performed in the Grand Opera House in Belfast, is currently receiving a fantastic reception from audiences across Ireland with her new band.

“It certainly is a very exciting time for me and the band. We are getting a phenomenal reaction everywhere we go and I just hope that it all goes well now in the coming weeks and months,” she said.

Her co-presenter, Malachi Cush said: “Cliona is very talented and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.

“The Country Music Awards is our biggest broadcast of the year and the presence of American country stars Mo Pitney and Larry Gatlin will make it even more spectacular and memorable.”

Limited tickets for the Irish TV Country music awards can be obtained from Armagh City Hotel on 028 3751 8888. Viewers can tune into the action live on Irish TV on SKY 191, Freesat 400, all free to air boxes and online at www.irishtv.ie