Northern Ireland writer Wendy Erskine on why Belfast is a returning character

Cecelia Ahern – Best Selling Author

Her debut novel ‘PS I love you’ was made into a major Hollywood film and her books have sold over 25 million copies in 37 languages. In this episode best selling author Cecelia Ahern talks about her new book ‘Paper Heart’, finding herself through writing and how she almost had a pop career.

3 Michelin star chef Clare Smyth MBE

Clare Smyth is one of the best female chefs in the world. She’s the only female chef in the UK to receive and retain 3 Michelin stars. In this episode she talks about how growing up in a Northern Ireland farm kickstarted her love of food, overcoming industry challenges and why she wants to encourage the next generation of stand out chefs

Ireland Rugby player Brittany Hogan

Brittany Hogan is one of the stars of the 2025 Ireland world cup rugby squad. The Killinchy born back row knows that Ireland are up against it when they kick off their campaign on the 24th August It’s a challenge she’s ready for. In this episode Brittany talks about when she first discovered rugby and how the sport has grown since then.

Northern Ireland writer Wendy Erskine on why Belfast is a returning character

Wendy Erskine is Anna's Top Woman. A Belfast writer, she's a mum, a teacher, a writer, and loves soul music. With awards for her short stories, she's now written her debut novel "The Benefactors" featuring 50 characters from her home town, and at the heart of it, three teenage boys accused of sexually assaulting their female friend Misty. She tells Anna why she wrote the book, contemporary parenting and how her day job as a teacher and head of Department takes up all her time. She also reveals why she dedicated this first book to her own mother and daughter - or "the three amigos" as she calls them! If you have been affected by any of the issues in this episode, there are a range of organisations and websites that can offer you advice and support. You can find them listed on the BBC's Actionline website at bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Racing star Andi Stewart on future F1

County Antrim's Andi Stewart is 12 years old and already has her eyes on Formula 1