Waterford kids shine on Late Late Toy Show

Whoville met the Late Late Toy Show with Patrick Kielty as the Grinch and the ever recognisable Liam Neeson providing the voiceover as last Friday night's extravaganza kicked off. 

The Irish Times deemed Patrick Kielty's third year as presenter of the iconic show as "his strongest yet".

There were plenty of celebrity cameos, with Lewis Capaldi bringing a tear to everyone's eye and popstar CMAT racing from the 3Arena to Donnybrook to inject some light-hearted fun. 

But the real celebrities of the night for us in Waterford were brother and sister George (10) and Ophelia (6) Malone from Ardkeen Village. They are proud members of Synergy Dance Club in the city, and wowed the audience with their amazing dancing and toy dance demonstration. 

Their dance teacher Nicola Greene from Synergy Dance Club told the Waterford News & Star: "They've been working really hard on their dance routines and they so deserved a chance to showcase their talent. I'm delighted for them."

They also gave a shout-out to all their fellow classmates in St Mary's Ballygunner, with Ophelia giving a special mention to her First Class teacher Ms Lowe. 

They weren't the only Déise stars on the night. Fintan and Louie Prud’homme were chosen to represent Waterford in the county parade.

The delighted boys gave a big wave to the Toy Show studio audience as they passed by on a tricycle and a scooter, thrilled with their moment of fame.

The night ended with an announcement that over €4 million had been raised for the Toy Show Appeal. This money will be donated to over 500 children's charities across the country. The appeal was launched in 2020, inspired by the late Saoirse Ruane, who inspired the nation with her appearance on the show.