"I was true to myself" says Newbridge native after being fired on The Apprentice

Emma Browne after her appearance on The Apprentice

placeholder image — Emma Browne after her appearance on The Apprentice

The Apprentice returned to BBC One for its 17th series last night and Kildare woman Emma Browne was the first to be fired.

However self-confessed workaholic Emma from Newbridge said she believes host Lord Alan Sugar made the wrong decision to ask her to leave the show.

Emma and the 17 other candidates were tasked with creating and selling excursions to tourists in Antigua in the Caribbean.

The senior account executive said today: "Truth be told, I was absolutely devastated when I was fired, I couldn't understand why and I really didn't feel it was a fair decision and it seems many of you agree."

Lord Alan Sugar told her: "There's no smoke without fire, and everyone has said you're a disruptor."

Emma said today:

"Thank you to each and everyone one of you who has reached out and supported me.

"Truth be told, I was absolutely devastated when I was fired, I couldn't understand why and I really didn't feel it was a fair decision and it seems many of you agree.

"You guys are saying, that you hope I make a surprise return on the show, but unfortunately my journey on the The Apprentice has come to an end."

She added: "I am still so proud and grateful to have been chosen to be on a show which millions of viewers watch, and thousands of people apply for; one thing I can say is I was truly myself, remained kind but opinionated."

Speaking immediately after the decision to axe her from the show, Emma said she didn't agree with the outcome but accepted it nevertheless.

She said: "I’m not going to be a sore loser. I put myself forward and someone had to go. I’m not painful about it.

"I spent so much time doing a business plan that I probably wouldn’t have spent as much time doing if it wasn’t for The Apprentice."

Reiterating that Lord Sugar's decision was the wrong one, she added: "If he had been there during the task, his opinion could have been completely different, but I suppose that he’s made his decision from other people’s judgments," she said.

"I got the most sales. I was accurate in saying the beach wasn’t a good location. I brought a lot of energy to the girls’ team, which I think was seen as well and highlighted. I am a very positive person, and I remained positive throughout."