Proud night for Meath stars in Ireland's Got Talent

There was heartache but incredible pride for Meath's representatives in the grand finale of Ireland's Got Talent tonight. 
Linda McLoughlin from Ratoath, Navan's Aaron J Hart and Fit Kids Fit Teens were edged out in a thrilling final by dance troupe RDC who €50,000 and their very own TV show.

Ratoath powerhouse Linda gave stunning rendition of 'This Is Me' while Aaron J Hart from Navan who gave such powerful audtions and semi-final performances stormed the final with an upbeat rap that brought a standing ovation.

The crew from Fit Kids Fit Teens run by Jacinta Cassidy from Mornington hail from all over Leinster, and have represented Ireland in the World Hip Hop Championships, performed in flashmobs, and have taken part in TV talent competitions. 

Meath members include Darragh Rochfort from Dunboyne, Dean Kenny, CLonee, Jordan Nguyen, Dunboyne, Shauna Browing, Bettystown and Sidas Bagavicius, Grangerath.

Aaron J’s first audition really struck a chord with judge Michelle Visage, with his self-penned rap spoke about his own personal struggles with depression. Last night he performed another power rap, accompanied with ‘Read All About it’. His words really touched all of the judges, particularly Louis, who broke down while saying: "Every time I see you, you get me, you bear your soul, you are very honest, your mother should be so happy to have a child like you. I hope you get a record deal.”

Denise told him: “You just made me fall in love with rap, I understood your story it really moved me”. Jason said: “I loved the gospel choir, the passion running through you and the love you have for your mum, I was transfixed you were fantastic”. 

One of the show's first Golden Buzzer acts, Linda McLoughlin, showed exactly why she was Louis’ number one choice, her spine tingling performance of The Power of Love was a roof raiser. Louis implored the public: ‘ women of Ireland, lift you phones, we want her in the final! Michelle was impressed telling her: "You nailed it, you were stunning, you were empowering!"  Jason: "You were flawless and the notes were huge and I had shivers down my back! Denise was also blown away telling Linda: "You have so much guts and emotion in your voice your family must be very proud."