National: Schoolboy ready to light up the screen on Late Late Toy Show

‘TWAS the week of the Toy Show and all through Ireland, all the children were stirring, with excitement and magic.

One of those children who will get little sleep this week, is eight year-old Shane Logue from Newcastle West in County Limerick who has been selected to take part in The Late Late Toy Show this Friday night.

While he is sworn to secrecy about the theme of the show and what he will be doing, Shane has been speaking all about his audition and what it means to him to be a part of the national tradition.

“I auditioned at home and sent the video to RTÉ and I was selected. I got to go to Dublin then and I was excited because it was my first time on a train. We got some breakfast in Dublin because we had to leave at six o'clock in the morning.

“We went to some clothes shops and did some shopping. Then we went to the RTÉ studios. I went around with some boys and girls and they asked me questions. I had to do some other stuff too.”

The second-class pupil at Killoughteen NS was not going to give away any details of what he got up to in Dublin but he did reveal what his favourite part of the show is as a viewer.

“I watch it every year. I have a little sleep before it and then my mam wakes me up when it starts so I can watch it until the end. My favourite parts are the music and when the children sample the toys.”

Just to build up some more anticipation, Shane said that he will be appearing “towards the end of the show” so those waiting to see him in action will have to wait patiently for his moment to shine.

The youngest of three children, Shane said all his family and friends are very excited for him to appear on the show, which will see Patrick Kielty take the helm for the first time.

“I have told everyone that I am going to be on it. I am nervous and excited. We are driving to Dublin on Friday and staying overnight. I am really excited.”

Shane's family and friends will be among thousands watching the live show this weekend which has topped the charts over the last number of years as the most watched programme in the country.

This year's production will be sure to attract Toy Show stalwarts as well as curious viewers eager to see what the new host does with the beloved show.

Pictured with some of his favourite festive toys and in his best Christmas jumper, Shane embodies the excitement and anticipation of children around the country for what is sure to be a night to remember.

The Christmas-mad boy has not yet written his letter to Santa, but there is no doubt that Mr Claus will be tuning in on Friday and placing Shane firmly on the ‘nice’ list.

The Late Late Toy Show airs Friday, November 24 at 9:35pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.