SPOTLIGHT ON........GRAINNE BERRILL
Where did you grow up?
Just outside Drogheda – born and bred, Louth and proud!
An event or memory that stands out from your childhood
My very first memory is of staying in my granny’s house in Castlelumney, Tenure. I spent so much of my childhood there and have the happiest of memories growing up that I love that it is my first memory.
Who has had an influence on your life?
It might sound a bit cliched but my mother was definitely the biggest influence on my life. Loads of people in Drogheda would have known her as ‘Sarto from Personnel’ in Butlins/Mosney. She had such a positive outlook, despite lots of hardship, was really outgoing and would talk to anyone – if I am a little bit like her I would be a lucky lady!
How did you become interested in your career / hobby?
In 2007 I was working in the world of private business, I loved my job in lots of ways but wasn’t really getting that ‘job satisfaction’ you get from feeling like you are making a difference in people’s lives so decided to take a chance and switch careers. It’s amazing how much volunteering can impact on the individual volunteer as well as make a huge difference for the community as a whole – the past couple of months here in Drogheda are evidence of this. We have had phenomenal feedback from people who volunteered during the Fleadh about how life changing it was for them! If anyone wants to try out volunteering they can get in touch with us in Louth Volunteer Centre.
Do you have an unfulfilled ambition? What is it?
Like many people I wish I played a musical instrument – so my unfulfilled ambition would be to play an instrument to a standard that would be acceptable in public. Maybe I’ll do it for the Fleadh next year!
What book stands out in your mind and why?
The first time I read the Handmaid’s Tale, years ago as a young woman, it really affected me.
Have you a favourite song / poem / filmwhat is it and why?
I have loads of favourite songs and films, would never be able to pick an individual one!!
What is your pet hate?
When people say they haven’t got time to volunteer! Only joking, in Louth Volunteer Centre we understand that volunteering isn’t always suitable at a particular time in a person’s life but when the time is right we are always happy to help you find a volunteer role.
What was your happiest moment?
I am a generally happy person with a life made of many happy moments!
What was your saddest moment?
We all have a lot of sadness in our lives, I like to concentrate on the happy times.
What do you value most in people?
Genuineness
What are you most proud of ?
My children
Any big events coming up in your life?
My eldest son is 18 in November, but I still think I am 18 myself!
What is your favourite thing about Drogheda?
The people. One of the biggest things to come out of the Fleadh was that it showed the enormous community spirit in our town, so many people giving their time to make sure Fleadh Cheoil Droichead Átha was the best yet. Of course there’s lots to be done all year round so if any community organisations are looking for volunteers, or people are looking to volunteer take a look at www.volunteerlouth. ie, call us at 041 9809008 or call in to us in the Old Motor Tax Office in Bolton Street.