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| Tubridy Tonight guests are revealed |
29 May 2009: Ryan Tubridy will be joined by a host of stars for his final 'Tubridy Tonight' show tomorrow.
Actor and singer David Hasselhoff, who was previously one of the most memorable guests on the show, will be joining the presenter for a chat.
Westlife star Kian Egan and his wife Jodi Albert will be making their first television appearance together since their recent wedding in the Caribbean.
| Source: www.rte.ie
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| Decision on development by Westlife star deferred |
29 May 2009: An Bord Pleanala has announced that a decision regarding planning permission for a development by Westlife star Shane Filan's company, Shafin Developments, at Main Street, Dromahair has been deferred until June 16.
The application, which was met with strong local opposition, proposes to demolish the existing Breffni Centre hotel and function room and construct a supermarket, creche, outdoor play area, gym and a community room, was rejected last November by Leitrim County Council and that decision was subsequently appealed to An Bord Pleanala.
A decision had been expected last Thursday, May 21 after a decision on the application was originally deferred from April 16.
| Source: www.leitrimobserver.ie
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| I'm a total Twitter addict admits Westlife star Nicky |
29 May 2009: Westlife star Nicky Byrne has admitted he is the latest celebrity to become addicted to online diary site Twitter.
The chart-topping singer joins the likes of Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Britney Spears, Stephen Fry and Russell Brand, who are all famous devotees.
The dad of twins, Jay and Rocco told the Herald: "I'm totally addicted to Twitter.
"My brother set me up on it about four weeks ago and it's great because you can update it every day or just whenever you feel like it.
"I'm following Gethin Jones from Blue Peter as I was over playing a charity game in Liverpool with him two weeks ago and he was sound.
"I'm also following Brian (McFadden)," he revealed.
Meanwhile, the boyband star has promised fans that the group will be steering clear of cheesy cover songs for their new album. Nicky has vowed that for their first release after enjoying a year off, they're determined to shake things up and enlist some quality songwriters to help them on their mission.
"We've enjoyed our year off but we had a meeting with our label recently and said 'look we'll keep going for the next 10 years but we need to have better material'.
"We're not precious about it but when I say better, I mean we're ambitious people and we're always striving for better.
"Covers are great but you get categorised for only doing that and that annoys us as for the first five years, we only did something like two covers.
"But we're still around for a reason as a cover song like Raise Me Up has done brilliantly for us.
"So when people ask me what my most memorable moment of being in Westlife is I have to say that."
"But this new album needs to be fresh, new and original and we have always pushed our label to do other stuff and I'm really excited to hear some new material. Our plan is to go to the States in July and start recording in somewhere like Nashville."
And while the crooner, who launched the Centra Childline BBQ this week, is looking forward to getting back into the swing of things workwise, his Twitter fascination shows he has picked up some new habits during his year-long break.
His twins recently celebrated their second birthday and Nicky said that he would love to eventually add to his family with Georgina Ahern.
"At some point yeah, I'd love that.
"The boys are two at the moment and they're got their own little personalities now and the way I see it, we're just so delighted and lucky to have two healthy children," he said.
| Source: Herald.ie – Melanie Finn
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| Westlife Star Reveals Most Nervous Moment |
28 May 2009: (published on 22 May 2009) WESTLIFE star Shane Filan has revealed how he was reduced to a nervous wreck when he had to perform a private gig for Pope John Paul II.
The singer has almost seen and done it all in 10 years of chart topping hits and sell-out tours. But he confessed a personal audience with the Pope almost ended in disaster when they were asked to sing in an ultra-high key.
Cranberries star Dolores O'Riordan came to their rescue at the last minute by turning their Little Drummer Boy rendition into a duet.
Shane revealed: "It could have been an absolute car crash. I was terrified and sweating buckets.
"I have never been so nervous in my life and will probably never be that nervous again."
Shane, 29, and the Westlife boys hit the jackpot when they were asked to perform at the late Pope John Paul II's Christmas concert at the Vatican in 2001.
Sligo-born Shane added: "I was shaking and I called my parents up the day before and said, 'You're coming with me tomorrow to meet the Pope'.
"When we got there the plan was to sing World Of Our Own and Little Drummer Boy.
"But the orchestra had rehearsed the whole song in a much higher key than we could sing. "We would have ended up sounding like chipmunks.
"Thankfully Dolores was there too and she came in at the last second and did all the high notes. We got away with it thanks to her. Then when it came time to meet the Pope and get blessed by him it was a surreal experience. It really was something else.
"My shirt was soaking wet, I was hot all over and the whole thing got to me. "My parents were also waiting in line with me and we were just all stunned that we were even there.
"So when people ask me what my most memorable moment of being in Westlife is I have to say that."
The band are now planning a huge comeback after a year off which will include a new album and tour.
Shane said: "We have so many amazing memories from the past decade but we're determined to have an even better 10 years ahead.
"We are really hyped up to give it our best shot and we're going to be working on some amazing songs."
| Source: Irish Daily Mirror. Credits: Thanks to Saffy Feehily at The Committed for posting article.
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| Westlife: Our Story |
28 May 2009: Thanks to Lou at The Committed for the scanned pictures from the book.
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| Birthday Greetings To Mark |
28 May 2009: Yay, it is Mark’s birthday today. Hope you have an amazing day with Kevin and your family. xx
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| Westlife To Appear On The Late Late Show |
28 May 2009: BROADCASTER Pat Kenny could end up with a 'Magnificent' send-off when he ends his run as 'the Late Late Show' presenter – with U2 performing their new single on the show.
RTE insiders are remaining tightlipped on this week's line-up, but sources say the rock group and actor Gabriel Byrne will star as Kenny ends his 10-year run fronting the show.
Others set to appear on the last show before Ryan Tubridy takes over will be comedian Pat Shortt, singer Imelda May and pop manager Louis Walsh, along with Westlife members.
| Source: independent.ie
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| Nicky Flips Burgers |
27 May 2009: Nicky was in Dublin to help launch Childline by flipping burgers. To watch the video then click here.
| Source: www.tv3.ie
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| Teacher heads West for celeb brother's wedding |
27 May 2009: A SHEFFIELD teacher swapped his classroom for a star-studded wedding in Barbados when his pop star brother tied the knot. Gavin Egan, head of Performing Arts at the Sheffield Springs Academy in Arbourthorne, joined relatives and celebrities to watch his younger brother – Westlife star Kian Egan – marry former Hollyoaks actress Jodi Albert in an outdoor ceremony.
The ADVERTISEMENT father-of-six, a music teacher who lives in Rotherham, took time out of school to mingle with Westlife band members Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Mark Feehily as well as their manager Louis Walsh on the Caribbean island.
Others invited to the wedding included Hollyoaks actresses Carley Stenson, Ali Bastian, and Sarah Jayne Dunn - who performed in Sheffield in February in the play Boeing Boeing at The Lyceum theatre.
Gavin's brother Kian, 29, and 25-year-old Jodie, who were introduced to each other by music mogul Simon Cowell, organised a welcome dinner for all their guests once they arrived on the island so they could relax ahead of the big day.
As a surprise treat they also hired a catamaran so their friends and relatives could go swimming with turtles.
Kian and Jodie have both visited Rotherham to spend time with Gavin and his family. Kian also meets up with his Rotherham relatives whenever Westlife perform at Sheffield Arena.
The celebrity wedding was featured in OK! magazine and pictures show Gavin, dressed in a light linen suit and flip flops, lined up with the newlyweds and the rest of his family.
| Source: The Star. Credits: Joanne at WFVIP -z10.invisionfree.com/westlifefanaticVIP/index.php
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| I’m Filan Flash |
27 May 2009: Westlife singer Shane Filan said Happy 30th Bentley, to his wife when he stunned her with a 156,000 sports car.
The singer thrilled his birthday girl, with the flashy Bentley, GT Speed which boats a top speed, of 325kph and hits 0-60 in 4.3 seconds.
Shane, 29, threw a huge party for the blonde Beauty, in Sligo's Shenanigans pub, to celebrate the landmark birthday.
His Westlife bandmate Kian and his new wife Jodi, returned from their honeymoon, in Barbados to especially attend the event.
Earlier in the day Shane has presented Gillian with a diamond ring, as they enjoyed a romantic breakfast at their Sligo mansion.
Overjoyed Gillian was then led outside where the silver/grey speed demon, was waiting in the driveway. A pal revealed, "Shane has been plotting this for weeks. He wanted to get her the perfect gift. Gillian had no idea and was thrilled."
"Shane had to get the car delivered to Ireland last week."
"It was all made custom to order, with a cream leather interior, and all the extras."
"At her party Gillian kept telling everyone she just couldn't believe it, and that it was a total surprise."
"Shane had wanted to make it special, as it was her 30th and they have had an amazing year, during his time off from Westlife. She had no idea that he was planning this gift all the time. The look on her face was priceless…"
Later that night, the couple had a great celebration with all their family and friends. One guest revealed that the champagne was flowing.
"There was an incredible atmosphere, - it was even crazier than an after show party of Westlife's. Which is saying something."
"Shane organised the whole thing to perfection and was running around making sure everyone had plenty of food and drunk and everything else."
"There was even a good sing song by the end of the night."
Last month Gillian sent off golf fanatic Shane to Augusta for the US Masters as his surprise treat ahead of his birthday.
The couple have recently, returned from a two week trip to Barbados, with their two children Nicole (3) and baby Patrick.
They attended Kian and Jodi's beach wedding. Then moved in with the newlyweds in their mansion at cove springs for a few days.
| Source: Irish Daily Mirror. Credits: Thanks to Mary for scanning and Joanne at WFVIP for typing the article.
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| Westlife: Our Story |
| 25 May 2009: To pre-order your copy of the updated book on Play then click here.
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| Nicky Twitter Updates |
25 May 2009: News from the Nicky camp about the tour…
alot of you guys asking me about a new tour and what parts of the world we will be visiting..so to answer you all..we hope to tour...
so we will discuss it in more detail when we have started recording but yes asia aus nz south america soeurope uk and ireland
s africa basically everywhere ! so fingers crossed album goes well and we'll see everyone soon
not forgettin mexico ! and russia wud be cool too...but no truth in any rumors of us travelling to anywhere bar US for recording at the mo..
yeah croker was amazing..our new softback autobiography is out next week..its got a new chapter bout croker and new pics n stuff..and
get to listen to the actual recordings of us chatting with ghost writer..something different and never been done b4..enjoy it
croker wud be amazing to do again..but theres also the Aviva stadium which is lansdowne rd redeveloped opens next yr and theres the 02 !
sometimes you just cant keep everyone happy..im not hear to promote just answering your questions and telling you whats going on ..its exciting time at the min feels fresh and like we are starting all over again
see y'all later!
| Source: Nicky’s Official Twitter Page
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| The West Is Yet To Come |
22 May 2009: All the members of Westlife, better known for singing covers than writing their own tunes, are set to contribute tunes and lyrics to their next offering.
The lads are to record an as yet untitled album in the studio this summer.
And boy band hunk Nicky Byrne has revealed it will be a mix of rocky numbers and ballads for which ‘You Raise Me Up’ stars are famous.
Nicky said, "We are going to take our time with this album, so the plan is for a 2009, release but if we don't have amazing songs, it will be delayed until we do."
"We were all involved, in writing for the new album, and we are planning to work with some fantastic producers as well."
Sources close to Westlife say that they haven't given up hope on cracking America yet either.
They believe that them recording the album in US with some of the best producers could so the trick for them.
| Source: Irish Star. Thanks to Mary for scanning and Joanne at westlifefanaticvip.com for typing.
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| GAA 125 Year Celebrations |
22 May 2009: There is a Youtube clip showing Nicky talking about the GAA celebrations at Croke Park. Click here to view.
| Source: youtube.com – thanks to Irelandcom
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| Georgina’s Latest Blog |
21 May 2009: Read Georgina’s blog about Rocco and Jay. Click here to view.
| Source: thebabygurus.com – thanks to Becca for finding.
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| Xpose Interview with the Aherns |
20 May 2009: There is online interview with the Ahern girls who support the CARI charity.
In the interview Georgina chats about Kian and Jodi’s Wedding - click here to view.
| Source: www.tv3.ie/Expose.
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| Celebrity Wedding In Barbados |
19 May 2009: Thank you to Sybrand Cillié for allowing me to use the picture taken with Kian and Jodi. Sybrand was their personal wedding photographer for the special event.
| Source: www.prophotography.co.za - Sybrand Cillié
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| Xpose tonight |
19 May 2009: The CARI lunch took place at Cruzos in Malahide and Xpose showed a clip of Georgina with her sister Cecilia and mum Miriam at the event. Fans from Ireland can watch Xpose tonight at 6pm on TV3.
| Source: tv3.ie/xpose - Thanks to Born2bemrsNB for the details.
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| A Message From Kian |
19 May 2009: Kian and his new wife Jodi have just arrived home after their incredible Caribbean wedding. They’re currently busy unpacking and getting over their jetlag, but Kian wanted to pass this message on to all of you who’ve been posting your good luck wishes here and on the forum:
“Thank you to everyone for all the love and support we had the most amazing wedding day... see you all soon xxx”
Find out more about the wedding and see exclusive pictures of the band in the latest edition of OK! Magazine.
| Source: westlife.com
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| Update on Nicky’s ‘Tweets’ |
19 May 2009: Yay – album news from Nicky’s Twitter page.
whts the craic peoples? spoke with shane tonight all good with him, we were chatting about a song we wrote a couple of wks ago for new album
hopefully we record it for real and see how it turns out ! its called ...... haha youll have to wait !
we are gonna take our time with this album..so plan is for a 2009 release but if we dont have amazing songs itll be delayed till we have !
no panic as we are very very confident we will have it ready for this yr !! it getting exciting now !
song is a big big rocky ballad..and we were all involved in writing for new album and we are planning to work with some amazing producers to
any suggestions of album title !?
thats enough for now ! laters..oh and that song is called.............................................
im still reading the suggestions !
ok im def goin now..night and slan ! (irish for bye) !
| Source: http://twitter.com/nickybyrneoffic
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| Glamour granny: Socialite misses charity bash to be with baby |
18 May 2009: Claudine Palmer's mum is "over the moon" after becoming a first-time grandmother, the Herald can reveal. Champagne corks popped in the Palmer house after glam granny Joan told pals of her joy at welcoming new baby Robert Ronan Keane last weekend.
He is model Claudine's first baby with Ireland captain Robbie, with reports that the couple have signed a lucrative deal with a UK glossy to show off their gorgeous new arrival.
Northside socialite Joan Palmer was due to attend Miriam Ahern's annual fundraising lunch for CARI in Cruzzo restaurant in Malahide yesterday with a gaggle of her pals.
However, best friend Roz Flanagan revealed she's "too busy being a granny" this week to keep up with her usual social engagements.
Miriam was also kept busy lately babysitting daughter Georgina's twins Rocco and Jay after she jetted off to Barbados with husband Nicky to attend the Westlife wedding.
| Source: herald.ie. Credits: Melanie Finn - shortened by FF.
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| Shane Gets In Shape For Big Comeback |
18 May 2009: Published on 15 May. SHANE Filan joins the chest-life as he shows off his new hot bod on holiday in Barbados.
The Westlife star flashed his buffed-up torso as he hit the beach for an early morning workout in the sun.
Dressed in long shorts and designer shades, the millionaire hit the golden sand for a three-mile run and stretching as part of his gruelling new fitness regime.
The singer is desperate to get in the best shape of his life for Westlife's huge comeback at the end of the year where they will attempt to conquer the charts again after a year away.
Shane, 29, told the Irish Daily Mirror last night: "I'm trying to get healthier and generally fitter." "It's brilliant to be in the sunshine and able to do a work out on the beach."
"All the lads are in good shape at the minute. We're excited about making a return to the music business and we want to be in great shape to do it."
Shane has already decked out his Sligo mansion with EUR40,000 of gym equipment and hired best pal Brian as his personal trainer.
A pal revealed: "Shane has been really going for it in the gym over the last six months and he's really and he's really boosted his fitness. He has really beefed-up and has been doing loads of weights."
"He's completely changed his diet and has cut out sugars and caffeine and anything toxic. He's never looked or felt healthier."
"At home he has the whole gym done up with top equipment, mirrors and big screen TVs. It's a fitness fanatic's dream come true."
"He wants to be in the best shape of his life when Westlife make their comeback and he's really into the fitness side of things now."
Shane's band mates Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Nicky Byrne have also been hitting the gym as they prepare for a new album and huge publicity drive later this year.
Kian has bulked up with weight exercises while Mark has lost nearly two stone in weight from a year ago.
Shane is holidaying in Barbados with his wife Gillian, 24, and two children Nicole, three, and eight-month-old Patrick.
Earlier this week he and his family joined newlyweds Kian and Jodi in their honeymoon mansion.
| Source: Irish Daily Mirror – Paul Martin. Thanks to Villy at Westlife.gr for finding article and Kez at The Committed for the scan.
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| Jodi’s Honeymoon Oops |
15 May 2009: Jodi Albert's learning that water sports don't always have a happy ending.
She's on honeymoon in Barbados and having a whale of a time surfing until the waves break loose and she ends up with a mouthful of the salty stuff.
| Source: showbiz.sky.com
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| Watch Nicky Online |
15 May 2009: Thanks to Alfee for finding the link to watch Nicky online in last night’s Hillsborough match.
To watch the clip then click here.
You then need to use the navigation link to watch the rest of the match.
| Source: Justin TV – credits to Alfee. Thank you to Brera on Official for the screen cap.
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| Happy Birthday To Gillian |
15 May 2009: Many happy returns to Gillian who turns 30 today.
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| Hillsborough Match |
14 May 2009: Good luck to Nicky and the other stars playing at Anfield tonight. The match will be televised on ITV4 at 7pm.
The match will pay tribute to the victims of the 1989 disaster, whilst also raising money for the Marina Dalglish appeal.
| Source: Liverpoolecho.co.uk
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| Keep Up With Nicky On Twitter |
14 May 2009: Yay, it has been confirmed by official that Nicky has a Twitter page.
Here’s a selection of his latest “Tweets”…
‘ok ive heard it officially the game on may 23rd in goodison park has been cancelled ! im dissappointed.. anfield on thursday will be great !’
‘just finished my boxing training all going well..4months now! in traffic on way home..anything good on tv later ?’
‘watching the tweemies now with R n J..they doin the hokey kokey ! anyone ? oohhh the hokey kokey oohh the hokey kokey..c'mon..you put your..’
You can keep up to date with Nicky here by clicking here.
| Source: westlife.com
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| Cause Charity Match Postponed |
13 May 2009: The Merseyside United v All-Stars XI celebrity football match due to take place at Goodison Park has now been rescheduled for May 2010.
The match, due to take place at the on 23 May and organized by CAUSE (Childrens Aid Using Soccer Events), has been postponed following the recent announcement of the Hillsborough Memorial game due to take place at Anfield this Thursday.
Faced with the prospect of asking Merseyside to support two major charity events in the space of just a few weeks, the organisers felt that postponing the game until next year was the right thing to do.
Former Liverpool and Tranmere player Jason McAteer, a founding partner of CAUSE, said: “Whilst we wholeheartedly support Thursday’s game, naturally we’re disappointed to be standing down for the time being - particularly after all the hard work over recent months in signing up so many stars from the world of sport and show business.
“But the simple truth is that it would not only be unfair to place so much pressure on the renowned generosity of Merseyside people, but we are also conscious that staging both games so close together could be confusing to the general public – especially with the crossover of celebrities appearing in both games.
“In the 20th anniversary year of the Hillsborough disaster, the families deserve the support of everyone who wants to see justice prevail.
“By continuing to promote our event, there is a distinct danger we could detract from this week’s game. My colleagues and I firmly believe that rescheduling our event is the correct and proper way of respecting the memory of the Hillsborough victims and we’re sure it can only maximise the important fundraising efforts that will enable the families continue their campaign for justice.”
CAUSE officials explored the feasibility of staging the match at several points throughout this year, but the crowded domestic and international football calendar has proved a stumbling block – a date in May 2010 will be announced in due course.
The Charity has set itself an ambitious target of raising £1 million for deserving local and international charities including Liverpool Unites, The Prince’s Trust, Save the Children and The Rhys Jones Memorial Trust. All proceeds will go directly to the charities involved.
| Source: www.evertonfc.com
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| Kian and Jodi Articles |
13 May 2009: I have moved the wedding articles for Kian and Jodi to the Media section.
| To view the articles then click here.
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| Charity Match Postponed |
12 May 2009: Aw just read that the Cause charity match on the 23rd May has been postponed until next year. As soon as I hear any official news I will let you know.
| Source: Jade-Louise/official forum
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| Kian and Jodi clip |
13 May 2009: Thanks to Born2bemrsNB for finding the video clip.
To watch the clip then click here.
| Source: Xpose. Thanks to Born2bemrsNB
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| Scans from Irish Daily Mirror |
11 May 2009: Ahhh wow at the attached scans from the Irish Daily Mirror.
| Source: Irish Daily Mirror. Thanks to Mary at WFVIP for scans.
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| Shane and Gillian pictures |
11 May 2009: Two high quality pictures of Shane and Gillian in Barbados attending Kian and Jodi’s wedding.
| Source: Splash News
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| VIP |
10 May 2009: They’re on a year off but even Westlife appear to be feeling the financial pinch. The Oirish hunks were paid £250,000 to play at a businessman’s wife’s party in Liverpool this week for one hour. The band – Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan – were flown to Scouseland from Ireland in a private jet.
| Source: The People
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| Kian and Jodi Scans |
10 May 2009: Scanned articles from the papers.
| Source: Irish Daily Mirror/Evening Herald/Irish Sun – thank you to Lucy for scanning articles.
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| Kian and Jodi pictures |
09 May 2009: Thank you to Mary at Westlifefanaticvip.com for the scanned pictures in the Irish Mirror and Irish Star.
| Source: Irish Mirror/Irish Star - Thanks to Mary for scanning and Joanne at WFVIP for typing it up.
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| Pictures of Kian and Jodi |
09 May 2009: Thank you to Born2bemrsNB at The Committed for the Kian and Jodi pictures.
| Credits: Irish Independent/Richie Taylor - Thanks to Born2bemrsNB for pictures.
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| Pictures of Shane |
07 May 2009: Thanks to Ivgt at The Committed for the scanned pictures of Shane taken on Friday 1 May.
| Source: Sligo Weekender – thanks to Ivgt for the pictures.
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| Six Nations Cup Drops Into Sligo |
06 May 2009: Sligo rugby enthusiasts were treated to a Triple Crown affair at the 02 store, O’Connell Street on Friday 1 May along with Westlife’s Shane Filan.
Fans queued up to see their heroes’ international trophy presented by Sligo’s popular celebrity.
The event was held to celebrate all the Sligo rugby fans who participated in 02’s Be The Difference campaign in conjunction with the RBS Six Nations Championship.
Rugby fans who attended the exciting encounter were given the chance to pose with Shane and to get their hands on the coveted Six Nations and Triple Crown silverware.
02’s Sarah O’Neill told the Sligo Post that Be The Difference was about giving the fans the opportunity to pledge their support for their national team both on and off the pitch.
“Today’s event was about celebrating Ireland’s Grand Slam victory and thanking Sligo rugby fans for signing up to the Be The Difference campaign”. She said.
Damian Devaney, Marketing Director at 02 added: “This is the first time in over 60 years that Ireland has won the Grand Slam and we are delighted to be able to thank Sligo fans by giving them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the trophy at their local 02 store.
The Westlife front man expressed his delight while presenting fans with the trophies.
The Carraroe crooner was in Cardiff to watch the electric game between Ireland and Wales with his two brothers. “It was a great game to be at and felt amazing to be there. 02 also sponsors the band so coming here today was the least I could do”, explained Shane.
| Source: Sligo Post – thanks to WFVIP for article.
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| Shane Joins A Grand Day For Sligo Rugby Fans |
06 May 2009: Westlife’s Shane Filan was one of hundreds of Sligo rugby fans who turned out for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Grand Slam trophy cup in Sligo.
The crowd celebrated and reminisced over Ireland’s recent Grand Slam victory in Wales – as the 02’s Grand Slam Trophy tour visited Sligo’s 02 Store on O’Connell Street on Friday.
During the RBS 6 Nations championship 02 gave Sligo rugby fans the opportunity to pledge their support and ‘Be The Difference’ to the Irish rugby team for the five gruelling encounters against some of the best rugby teams in the world.
Thousands of Sligo rugby fans took part in 02’s ‘Be The Difference’ campaign, signing up by text, online or visiting their local 02 store.
To thank Sligo rugby fans for signing up to the campaign, 02 offered them the chance to get their hands on the coveted 6 Nations and Triple Crown silverware and have their photo taken with the Grand Slam Trophy Tour.
| Source: Sligo Weekender
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| Shane Gives Kian Marriage Advice |
06 May 2009: Father-of-two Shane Filan has advised Kian to enjoy his big day this week and all that marriage has to offer.
Shane is expected to join band mates Nicky and Mark this week in a star-studded bash to witness fellow band mate Kian tie the knot with fiancée Jodi Albert.
“He’s got a great girl in Jodie, and a fantastic relationship. They’ve been together a long time so it’s about time they got married!”
Speaking to the Sligo Post last Friday Shane said that his life only started to mean something after he became a father.
He and his wife Gillian had their second child late last year and the Westlife star told the Post how his life has changed since having children.
“Having kids definitely puts life into perspective. In my opinion, I’ve only started living since I had kids.
“Hopefully, there’ll be many more.”
Speaking about the latest arrival, Patrick, born last September, the pop star said he was glad to have had the opportunity to be at home.
“It was wonderful to be there when Patrick was born, to be able to take the last nine months off and spend time at home.
“We’ve got six weeks left before we get straight back into work. I’m enjoying every minute of it.”
The singer, who already has a four-year-old daughter, Nicole, continued to say that Westlife are heading to Nashville in June to start recording on their new album.
“We got new people with fresh songs and fresh material. We feel the last year has had too many covers so we’re back to originals like our first album, with some great pop songs.”
| Source: sligopost.com
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| Hillsborough Memorial Match |
06 May 2009: KENNY Dalglish today paid glowing tribute to the long list of legends and celebrities who have pledged to turn out at Anfield next week for the Hillsborough 20th Anniversary Memorial game.
World boxing great Joe Calzaghe will be among a host of famous names to appear at Anfield next Thursday night, including Robbie Fowler and Paul Gascoigne plus a long list of former Everton and Liverpool greats.
Legend Fowler has promised to fly in from Australia, where he is now playing with A-League side North Queensland, to take part in a Liverpool Legends v All Stars encounter.
Other top names on show in the match will include Dalglish himself, Alan Hansen, Dave Watson, Alan Stubbs, Gary Gillespie, Trevor Steven and Graham Stuart.
Singer Craig David and Nicky Byrne from Westlife are among a line-up of celebrities who will also play in the match - which will pay tribute to the 96 victims of the Leppings Lane disaster in 1989 while also raising money for the Marina Dalglish appeal to help build a £15m radiotherapy unit at Aintree Hospital in Fazakerley.
Dalglish said: “The support from everyone for this game has been truly amazing and I must thank every one of the lads for agreeing to come along and play.
“I’ve never seen Joe Calzaghe play football before but he is one of boxing’s all time greats with a magnificent unbeaten record - and anyway someone said he should add a fair bit of punch up front!
“Robbie is flying in from Australia and Gazza will be there too.
| Source: Liverpool Echo – thanks to XxNickysChicxX on the official forum for finding.
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| Meteors |
06 May 2009: Two high quality pictures added of Shane and Gillian from the Meteor Awards.
| Source: Famous.
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| Bertday dad, Stars and dad turn out for Georgina's 30th |
06 May 2009: Former Taoiseach Bertie Aherne, bowed out early from his eldest daughters 30th birthday party, at the weekend, declaring "I'll leave it to the young ones".
Mum of two Georgina was celebrating her milestone birthday at the celeb Dublin haunt Krystle on saturday night.
But Bertie, 57, who was joined by his ex Miriam and his youngest girl Cecelia, for the bash made his excuses well before the stroke of midnight.
Asked why he wasn’t staying, until the wee hours, the one time Irish leader, grinned "Its getting a bit louder".
However birthday girl Georgina, was relishing the chance to let her hair down, with her twins boys Rocco and Jay, who turn two at the end of the month, sound asleep at home.
She revealed "its great to get a night out. They don’t come as often as they used to."
Husband Nicky even organised a special party prop for the night. A lifesize snapsnot of Georgina as a vogue covergirl, with the spoof headline "Flying Without Twins".
The Westlife star explained, "Georgina had a rolling stones cover made for my 30th birthday, last year so this was the perfect way to give her back and she loves it"
Nicky's bandmate Shane Filan appeared to be having a good time too, whilst partying the night away with his beautiful wife Gillian, and Boyzone’s Shane Lynch and Stephen Gately.
Keith Duffy was in fine form despite, being off the booze after last week’s double hernia operation.
And Ronan and Yvonne Keating were not the only loved up couple to be turning heads. Rugby hero Brian O’Driscoll was celebrating Leinsters win earlier in the day with fiancée Amy Huberman.
Even Westlife's Kian Egan was there in spirit. Nicky reckons "He is as cool as the breeze, ahead of his wedding to Jodi Albert in Barbados on Friday."
He said "Kian had texted him and said that the weather is gorgeous over there, - and we can’t wait to join them.
| Source: Irish Star – thanks to Joanne at WFVIP for article.
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| Birthday girl Georgina's in Vogue as Bertie goes clubbin' in Krystle |
05 May 2009: IT was a double celebration in celeb hotspot Krystle nightclub on Saturday night as the boys in blue toasted their big win against Munster, while Georgina Ahern celebrated her 30th birthday with a star-studded bash.
The mum-of-two and her Westlife hubby Nicky Byrne were more loved up than ever as they marked the occasion, alongside close friends and family, with Georgina's dad, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, even making a brief appearance.
Georgina, who is married to Westlife member Nicky Byrne, celebrated with family and friends in the VIP lounge of Krystal nightclub. She was joined by her father, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, and her mum, Miriam. The proud grandad posed for pictures and enjoyed a glass of bubbly with his daughter. But he made his excuses soon after, telling the other revellers that it was time to "leave the young ones to it".
Earlier that night, the group had enjoyed dinner and drinks at the Shelbourne hotel before going to the Harcourt Street club to continue the partying.
Looking radiant in a slim-fitting black dress and a pair of designer shoes, given to her by Nicky as a birthday gift, Georgina gushed she was having "a fantastic evening".
Her thoughtful other half had even gone to the effort of having an enormous Vogue magazine cover made for his childhood sweetheart. He arranged the prezzie after Georgina surprised him with a Rolling Stones cover at his own 30th bash in Malahide last year.
The life-sized cover, taking over one wall of the club's VIP Penthouse, featured a striking picture of the gym instructor and included a number of quirky phrases describing the celeb mum, such as 'fitness guru to super mum'.
"I had no idea about the magazine cover," Georgina explained. "It was a total surprise and I wasn't expecting it at all but it's great, I thought it was really funny
Nicky, meanwhile, told the Diary how he can't wait to take off for Barbados with his other half later this week to see his fellow band member Kian Egan tie the knot with fiancee Jodi Albert.
According to the star: "We're all really looking forward to it, they couldn't have picked a better destination in the sun. "It'll be nice to have the break away for the few days and have a proper catch-up with all the gang. "I was chatting to Kian earlier and he's getting really excited about it now," he added. And no doubt his wife will look a million dollars alongside the other Westwives at the showbiz wedding; given that designer Synan O'Mahony is making her dress.
The pair will be joined on the sun-kissed isle by Nicky's band-mate Mark Feehily, as well as Shane Filan and his wife Gillian, who also stepped out on Saturday night to help Georgina celebrate turning 30.
The loved-up couple were later spotted congratulating a number of the Leinster players who were out celebrating their big win against Munster earlier that day.
Among those enjoying the jovial atmosphere was Gordon D'Arcy and try scorer Brian O'Driscoll. "Of course we're delighted," a proud D'Arcy told the Diary in between posing for pictures with fans. "Sure, who wouldn't be? It was a great game". His pal, Brian O'Driscoll, was in equally good humour as he strolled through the venue, hand in hand with fiancee Amy Huberman, as they enjoyed the festivities with the rest of the team.
| Source: herald.ie - Lorna Nolan
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| Westlife Performances |
05 May 2009 – Ahhh two videos found of the private party Westlife attended in West Wirral.
Click the title to view the clip My Love and When You’re Looking Like That - Home
| Source: youtube.com/MrAlano3333 – thanks to Villy for finding.
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| Georgina’s 30th Birthday |
05 May 2009: Three scanned pictures from Georgina’s 30th birthday party on Saturday.
| Source: Irish Independent. Credits: Thank you to Lucy for the scanned pictures.
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| Charity Football Match |
05 May 2009: Tickets for the charity match are now on sale. To book tickets then telephone: 0871 663 1878.
| Source: evertonfc.com
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| A Family Affair At Georgina’s 30th Bash |
04 May 2009: Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's daughter Georgina celebrated her 30th birthday in style at the weekend - with family and friends in tow.
The mother of twin boys Rocco and Jay pulled out all the stops to create a milestone celebration on Saturday night that she would never forget .
Georgina, who is married to Westlife member Nicky Byrne, celebrated with family and friends in the VIP lounge of Krystal nightclub. She was joined by her father, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, and her mum, Miriam.
Bestselling novelist and little sister Cecelia Ahern also made an appearance at the event - making it a complete family affair.
Her husband Nicky Byrne was also provided with a bit of support from Boyzone. Ronan Keating and his wife Yvonne turned up to wish Ms Ahern well. And they were joined by Shane Lynch, Stephen Gately, and Keith Duffy.
Fashion designer Synan O'Mahony and Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given also attended the glitzy club to pass on their birthday wishes to the former Taoiseach's daughter.
But while the party continued until 4am, Georgina's famous father was the first to leave at 10.15pm.
He was followed by Miriam, who left with daughter Cecelia and her boyfriend, David Keoghan.
| Source: independent.ie - Patricia McDonagh
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| Westlife play secret gig at Wirral |
01 May 2009: THEY have topped the charts, sold tens of millions of records and have countless fans - but one fan from Wirral, in particular, was in for a treat.
For the 50th birthday party of one lucky fan - and guests - at an exclusive Wirral hotel, they were entertained by Irish pop band Westlife for a full 45-minute set.
The secret gig had been organised by the wealthy husband as a surprise for his wife at the birthday party at the Hillbark Hotel, in west Wirral.
Around 100 guests were treated to the show in a marquee at the party in the luxury hotel’s grounds at Royden Park, Frankby.
One of those lucky enough to grab a sneak view said the band had arrived last Saturday afternoon and spent several hours doing sound checks after being jetted in from Ireland.
He said it had been a “very intimate performance” and, although not a fan himself, had recognised the songs from the band’s extensive back catalogue. He said: “It was all very hush hush”.
“They had said they loved doing this kind of gig because it took them back to where they had started out, playing to small but appreciative audiences, and that it made a change from playing to huge stadiums.”
It is understood the band later went for a night out in Liverpool and were seen at the Mosquito Club.
It is not the first time the band have performed such a gig for a private party. A year ago, Westlife and Girls Aloud were reportedly hired to perform at a private 18th birthday.
They had been booked by a millionaire businessman to play at his daughter's party at Kenwick Park Hotel in Louth, Lincolnshire.
The hotel where the band performed itself has a curious history, originally built in 1891 on Bidston Hill, in Birkenhead, for the soap manufacturer Robert William Hudson. Hillbark was sold in 1921 to Sir Ernest Royden and in 1928 was moved to its present site - brick by brick - finally being completed in 1931.
It had been used by the local authority before being bought by current owners, husband and wife team, Craig and Lisa Baker.
While in Wirral, last weekend, the band are also believed to have stayed at the luxury boutique Leverhulme Hotel, in Port Sunlight, also owned by the Bakers, and were seen by a number of surprised locals walking around admiring the historic village the following morning before jetting off that day.
When asked about the secret performance by the band, a spokesman for the hotels last night refused to comment.
| Source: liverpooldailypost.co.uk
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