Bernie Nolan

Bernie Nolan, 49, enjoyed international fame singing with her sisters as part of ‘The Nolans’. She’s currently touring the UK in ‘Calendar Girls’. Bernie is married to drummer Steve Doneathy and has one daughter, Erin, 12.

The best thing my parents taught me…

Was to respect my elders and never think I know it all – who does?

When I was a child I wanted to be…

A boy. I was a bit of a tomboy and still am. I’d much rather be in the pub with the lads than out with the girls. On Sundays, I’m in the lounge watching the TV while my husband’s in the kitchen cooking the dinner. He’s a great cook.

My most vivid memory from childhood is…

Flying off to Benidorm in Spain. It was my first time on a plane and I was beside myself with joy. I was eight at the time.

If I could go back in time I’d tell my 16-year-old self…

Don’t believe everything you’re told. I did and thought everyone was wonderful. I was very innocent.

The worst job I’ve done was…

At a working men’s club where a huge fight broke out while I was singing. I was four at the time and remember my dad saying, “The show must go on, keep singing,” so I did.

My favourite place in the world is…

Venice. It’s where my husband proposed and is very romantic.

A memory that makes me smile is…

The day my daughter Erin was born. She is the best thing in my life alongside my husband.

My happiest moment…

Was when doctors said my response to chemotherapy, after my cancer diagnosis, was the best they’d ever experienced. I’m now in remission.