Michael D Higgins is in the lead to become the next President of Ireland.

The incumbent is the preferred candidate for two-thirds of voters according to a new poll in the Irish Daily Mail.

65 percent of people say they'll vote for Michael D Higgins when the Presidential election is held on October 26th.

The poll claims he's 54 points ahead of his closest rival Seán Gallagher who has 11 percent support - ahead of his expected candidacy announcement later

Also on 11 percent support is Sinn Féin's as yet unnamed candidate - with MEP Liadh Ni Riada the favourite to get the nod from the party.

Behind them comes Gavin Duffy on 10 percent and Pieta House founder Joan Freeman who trails on three percent support.

The poll is based on the answers of 942 adults, chosen at random by researchers from Ireland Thinks during August.

Meanwhile,two Roscommon people are seeking a nomination to contest the Presidential election.

Tulsk farmer John Groarke and Kiltoom native Marie Goretti Moylan, who lives now in Athlone, appeared before Meath, Kildare and Westmeath County Councils on Monday seeking support for their bids.

The Roscommon Herald reports that both are scheduled to come before Roscommon County Councillors at a special meeting next Wednesday .

Senator Joan Freeman and artist Kevin Sharkey are also seeking the nomination from Roscommon councillors.

Cadidates must be nominated by four local authorities or 20 members of the Oireachtas to contest the election on Friday 26th October.