Young garda is 2012's 'Face of Ireland'

Ciara Quinn from Dunboyne, a garda based in Dublin, has been crowned 'Face of Ireland 2012' at a lavish function at Moran's Red Cow Hotel in Dublin. The 26 year-old, affectionately known as Kiki, was left shocked when RTE 2FM Presenter Ruth Scott called out her name as the winner. Some 29,000 applicants fought through an extremely tough selection process, according to the organisers, and the final 18 battled it out for the top prize which includes a one-year modelling contract with the Rebecca De Havalland Model Agency, a luxurious holiday for two to New York with flights and accommodation, a one-week break away for two to Orlando, Florida, and a one week holiday in Spain for two. There is also 12 dresses courtesy of Beverly Hills in Galway and Belfast; a professional photo shoot with Vince Tully Photography, styled by leading stylist Maria Fusco; a luxurious hamper by Rockstar Tan, and hair styled for the year by Hairoscope. Ciara said she was also delighted to be selected as an ambassador for one charity in particular, StopSuicide.ie. Ciara, who lives in Dunboyne, said: "I just can't believe that I have won the competition; it has been an amazing experience and I am still in shock."