Music with Eddie Rowley

SINGER Tommy Fleming has enjoyed many accolades in his singing career, but surely one of his personal favourites comes from Alex Ferguson.

The legendary former Manchester United manager is a huge fan of the Sligo-born performer.

“If he played football like he sings, then I would sign him,” Sir Alex announced during his time with United.

Now on tour in the UK playing the lead role in Paddy The Musical after a sold out run in Ireland, Fleming is enjoying life as one of our national treasures.

Tommy says he has never taken his success and the gift of his unique voice for granted.

But he was reminded of his good fortune during a stint working with the charity GOAL in Sudan some years ago.

“Seeing so much pover- ty, hardship and death all around me made me realise how lucky I am, and indeed how fortunate we all are in this part of the world despite the ups-and-downs we may experience,” he reflects.

Tommy grew up on a small farm in Aclare, Co Sligo, and looking back he remembers enjoying the simple life in those early days.

“Sometimes when I’m facing challenges I wish for those times again,” he laughs.

It was Gay Byrne who gave Tommy his first big break in showbusiness.

“I auditioned for a Radio One production of Oklahoma in 1992, and Gay was part of the auditioning team,” the entertainer recalls.

“About 18 months later I was invited to sing on The Late Late Show.

“At the time I was trying to eke out a living playing in pubs. Afterwards, I was introduced to Phil Coulter and ended up touring the world with him.

“It was my university for life in the world of showbusiness.”

Tommy went on to join De Danann before finally going solo.