Guest of honour confirmed for wellie race in Co Kilkenny

Dancing with the Stars judge, Brian Redmond, has been named as this year's guest of honour for the Castlecomer Wellie Race. 

The annual event has been held on New Year's Day each year since 1978 and raises vital funds for a number of local and national charities. 

Won by Paddy Phelan in its inaugural year, the local festival initially took place in Powley, an area near Castlecomer, before moving to the North Kilkenny town in 1981 following an offer by local publican Jim Bollard to offer a perpetual cup to the winner.

The race's popularity has grown rapidly since its birth, with similar races in New York, Sydney, Toronto, Weston Missouri and further afield highlighting the local race's success.

For further information on the race, visit: https: www.wellierace.com