“I nearly died,’’ said Charlene Byers as she was announced the winner of the g Hotel best dressed lady at Galway on Thursday. From Newry, Co Down, Charlene had never been to Galway before and didn’t reckon she would scoop the prize given the hot competition, but her stunning hat by Laura Hanlon, dress by Umit Kutluk Designs, clutch by Lulu and heels from Next, meant she was chosen as the winner.

Charlene owns a hat shop named the Dress House in Newry. Charlene won a diamond and pearl pendant worth €6,000, a €2,000 cash prize, a romantic trip for two to Paris and a luxury stay at the g Hotel.