The Hail Mary has been voted Ireland's favourite prayer at the National Ploughing Championships in Co Carlow.

The competition was held at stand 399, which was run by the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, and had the theme 'Digging Deeper – Rooting For Christ'.

Visitors chose their favourite prayer from a shortlist, which included Our Father and the Rosary.

Hail Mary received 61% of votes, while O Angel of God (the Guardian Angel Prayer) received 39%.

A spokesperson for the Irish Catholic Bishops said that up until yesterday, Our Father and the Guardian Angel Prayer were leading the way.

"But then out of nowhere, Mary came through, so there's definitely something about Mary".

Bishop Denis Nulty, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, said he was "overwhelmed" by the response to the prayer competition.

He also invited visitors to compose a new prayer on caring for the environment.