Niall Hatch

Everyone had to start somewhere.

And I was I remember being a young bird watcher myself, which I could say I still was.

But I actually started when I was a toddler.

I was just fascinated by birds.

I don't remember a time when they weren't.

very important in my life.

And I have to say, they've given me a huge amount in my life as well, in terms of mental and physical health, something to do, something that's taken me all over the world.

You get to see, even within Ireland, you get to see parts of Ireland that most people never experience.

So bird watchers tend to know their own country very, very well.

And you meet people from all walks of life as well.

It cuts through all demographics.

Does it?

It really does.

Isn't that interesting?

So I remember being, you know, when I was a teenager myself, I would be going in groups, you know, with like...

bank managers in their 50s and retired barristers and school caretakers and all sorts of people.

It was absolutely wonderful.

And we all have this shared interest.

And I think in the modern world, when so many people are looking for connections and common interests and ways to sort of outlets, you know, for socialising, it's a wonderful way to do it.

you never see everything.