Pride despite more Gavin a go online.

PRESIDENTIAL hopeful Jim Gavin insisted he was pleased with his performance in the candidates’ debate despite criticism of his showing.

- BY CIARA O'LOUGHLIN Political Correspondent

PRESIDENTIAL hopeful Jim Gavin insisted he was pleased with his performance in the candidates’ debate despite criticism of his showing.

In a lacklustre debate on Virgin Media TV, which has been described by some observers as “a chat”, Independent Catherine Connolly was widely viewed as coming out on top.

The TD was praised for articulating her points well while coming across as more relaxed and assertive than her opponents.

But Mr Gavin was the target of social media memes, which poked fun at his constant hand gestures.

He was back on the campaign trail in Roscommon yesterday where he was joined by local Fianna Fail TD Martin Daly.