THIS week I'm writing our Sunday World Westlife column from sunny Rio in
Brazil where we're currently under siege from fans.
The girls down here are absolutely wild; they're a very emotional race and
they're constantly singing outside our hotel. These girls really want a
piece of us, so it's always a mad dash to the coach.
We're mobbed every time we step out on to the streets, but it's fantastic
because we've been stuck in a recording studio recently, shut away from all
our fans.
We were starting to suffer from withdrawal effects, so we're quite happy to
be down here enjoying all the attention - not to mention the sunshine.
Our last trip to South America was back in January and we literally have to
cram in six months work over the next few days. We're doing small concerts
and appearing on all the big TV shows. It's great fun.
I HAD a couple of days off recently and went back to see all my old soccer
pals at Leeds.
It took me back to the days when I was training there for a career as a
Leeds goalie. Unfortunately, that didn't work out for me because I didn't
grow tall enough but I'm not complaining...my love of music and singing has
given me a great life in Westlife.
It was great to meet all my old pals, Gary Kelly, Ian Hart, Alan Maybury,
Harry Kewell and Jonathon Woodgate. They have all done so well since our
early days .They showed me their fabulous homes and the great lifestyle they
enjoy.
They even took me out training with them -just like the old days. During the
session, Gary Kelly decided to have a laugh with me.
While I was out training in the rain and the muck, Gary nipped into the
dressing room and changed into my clothes. Then he arrived back out on to
the pitch wearing my leather trousers, blue denim jacket and cowboys
boots...and launched into the Westlife song, Flying Without Wings. I thought
I was going to die laughing.
Gary shouted over to me, "What do you think, Nicky, do I look like a pop
star?"
The other lads shouted back, "You look more like John Wayne!"
It was lashing rain and he wanted to dive into a puddle with my clothes.
That's Gary, always game for a laugh.
ON the subject of sport, Pennys have just launched a great new range of
soccer gear with the logo N.B.U. (Nothing But United), so whether you're a
Man United, Leeds United, Newcastle United or Kin-negad United fan, this
range of sweat shirts, T-shirts and polo shirts covers everyone.
You may have seen me wearing my personal one during the Telethon when I
appeared on Den2 with Dustin and Damien McCaul. Dustin being a Man United
fan loved the idea
LAST Tuesday I took part in the charity golf day in aid of the Marie Keating
Cancer Awareness Fund.
Westlife's manager Ronan invited me down as I was the only one around and it
was a fantastic day. We had glorious sunshine and lots of stars including,
Chris Evans, Keith Duffy, Ken Doherty, Joe Dolan, Michael Cartuth and Pat
Kenny.
I'm not a great golfer, but, for anyone who is interested, I parred the ninth
hole and that made my day.
Afterwards we had a few drinks and a bit of craic to round off the day. And
it was all in a good cause because the money raised will be used to put
cancer awareness units on the road, so that everyone can go and have free
checks.
And speaking of Ronan, all the lads in Westlife send their congratulations
and best wishes to himself and Yvonne following the good news that they are
going to have a little companion for Jack next February.
I REALLY love Mark. I think he's gorgeous. I love when he does that really
shy look at the camera. It sends a shiver down my spine. My dream is to meet
Mark one day.
Oria Maguire, Durlgloe. Co Donegal.
SHANE, you are my Number One because you have blue eyes, you have a lovely
voice and you are so sweet.
Sinead Clabby, Co Roscommon.
I AM a major fan of you all and the few times that I have met you were
definitely the best days of my life. I look forward to reading your column
every Sunday. This photo is one of my prized possessions, me and Bryan.
Elaine Given, Donegal
I LOVE you all. Shane, you are a living dream. Mark, sorry to hear about
your grandfather. I am lucky to have a set of tickets to see you next year.
I can't wait. And I can't wait for your new album to come out.
Clara Daly, Co Cavan.
