'I lost my sparkle for a while but found it again in WRITING'

Author Cecelia Ahern on the Eurovision audition that led to a sliding doors moment

- ZOE WEST

In the 90s, it seemed like there was a new pop band turning up every week - particularly in Dublin. Band manager Louis Walsh - probably best-known as an X Factor judge - was a big presence in the Irish music industry and would send me to various auditions.

I had been singing and dancing professionally all through my teenage years, so had got to know Louis. He was also the manager of my brother-in-law's band, Westlife. Nicky Byrne is married to my sister Georgina.