Summit to Dale

Talented Faith’s rock star homework is top class

BUDDING writer Faith Eager is sure to go to the top of the class thanks to her latest homework assignment – an interview with Bangor rock star Gary Lightbody.

It was carpe diem when the talented 10-year-old spotted the lead singer of alternative rock band Snow Patrol, Gary Lightbody, in his local Springhill Shopping Centre.

For the dedicated Rathmore Primary School pupil seized the moment when she asked the global indie-rock sensation for an impromptu interview – for her homework assignment.

The Bangor West pupil had been set the task of writing about three famous landmarks and three famous people – and who better than homegrown rock star Gary Lightbody.

And the youngster won high praise from the rockstar who said it was ‘the most enjoyable interview’ he had done in a long time.

Gary and his local band shot to fame across the United Kingdom in 2003 with their haunting single ‘Run’ – a song which young Faith is currently learning to play on the piano.

Since then the band have gone on to sell millions of albums across the globe, selling out stadium shows to thousands of fan – including a 40,000 strong gig at Bangor’s very own Ward Park.

This down to earth frontman clearly didn’t mind giving up some of his free time to help Faith with her homework – telling her that he was a former pupil of Rathmore Primary School himself.

Speaking to the Spectator Faith was clearly delighted the rock star took time out from his time at home to lend a helping hand with her homework assignment.

“We had to choose three famous landmarks and three famous people, put in their picture and one or two facts about the person or the landmark.”

The plucky youngster was quite relaxed about interviewing the rock star saying, “We were just at Tescos and he (Gary) was going to his car, and I just stopped him and asked him could I interview him.

“I asked him his age and he told me he was 38 years old. Then I asked him what he liked and he said he liked music and football.”

Faith said, “He was very friendly and I also asked him what he disliked and he said Brussel sprouts.”

Finishing off her interview with a flourish, Faith said, “I asked him what his fear was and he said his fear was being attacked by a giant Brussel sprout – then he added that he went to Rathmore Primary School, which is my school.”

The youngster clearly deserved high praise from the rockstar as Faith said, “Gary Lightbody said it was the most enjoyable interview he had done in a long time.”

Proud dad Noel said, “He really was lovely, for someone who is so megafamous, he was just like we were neighbours.”

With such fabulous interviewing skills, Faith clearly has the makings of an up and coming reporter but she said, “I like to read a lot and I do have my heart set on being an author.”