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When I meet comedian Adam Burke, his voice has a throaty, bass-like quality. Has he been unwell? While it might be cold season, his rasp is the result of a three-night stint hosting Bingo Loco; part disco, part game show with prizes such as Mini Coopers and trips to Las Vegas. Burke belongs to a crew of gold-jacketed staff and clearly adores the work, which he has most weekends.
It’s a fine spring day in Wexford town’s St Peter’s Square. In this quiet quad of lightly flaking buildings is Red Books, literary retail’s rising star. Sun beams through its large windows and the doorway is crammed with treasures a paper amuse bouche, if you will. A motley crew in knitwear surrounds the wooden till area, and Wally O’Neill, the proprietor. These are all regulars, friends and family, just hanging out. Minutes later, O’Neill and I stroll through the buzzing town to Frank’s Place, where we chat over French toast.
When I arrive at Sarah Gilmartin’s home, the first thing I notice in the doorway is a large toy Labrador wearing an Ireland jersey. His name is Judge and apparently I’m not the first person to do a double-take.