Presidential honour for opera legend Veronica Dunne

Newscaster Bryan Dobson and Dr Veronica Dunne in the National Concert Hall

Kirsty Blake Knox

President Michael D Higgins rushed from yesterday's All-Ireland final in Croke Park to the National Concert Hall to present Irish opera legend Dr Veronica Dunne with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

"This night is the highlight of my career," said Veronica, who made her operatic debut in 1948.

"I can't begin to tell you what it means to me."

The evening of music was hosted by broadcaster Bryan Dobson and featured musical interludes by Celine Byrne, Anthony Kearns and Tara Erraught.

Mr Dobson said it was an "honour" to act as master of ceremonies at the event.