Mary Kingston facts for kids

Mary Kingston (born 29 May 1970 in Inchydoney, County Cork) is an Irish children's television presenter. She is well-known for hosting popular shows like The Disney Club, Scratch Saturday, and The Works on Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ).

Early Life and Education

Mary Kingston grew up in Inchydoney, a small seaside area in County Cork, Ireland. She was the third of eight children in her family. After finishing primary school, she attended Sacred Heart Secondary School in nearby Clonakilty.

Studying Communications

Mary went to college to study Communication studies. She earned an Honours Degree in this field. Her education helped prepare her for a career in television.

Television Career

After college, Mary joined Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ). She became a children's television presenter. She has worked there for many years, bringing fun and learning to young viewers.

Early Shows

Mary started as an outside broadcast presenter on Scratch Saturday. This was a popular TV show that aired on Saturday mornings. She then co-presented The Works for four years. This show was a science program for kids. She worked alongside Michael Sheridan. Mary became known for her special accent and her catchphrase: "Are you laughing?"

Hosting Popular Programs

Mary was a regular on The Den, another well-loved children's show. Later, she hosted The Disney Club and Mary K in The Loft. These shows were broadcast on Sunday mornings. On The Disney Club, Mary had a companion dog named Fionn. Fionn was an Irish Wolfhound. His voice was provided by Michael Sheridan.

Special Events and Appearances

For five years, Mary presented The Children of Ireland Awards. She hosted this event with Bertie Ahern, who was the Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland) at the time. In 2003, Mary took part in Celebrity Farm on RTÉ. Two years later, in 2005, she appeared on The Restaurant.

Author and Traveler

Mary Kingston has also written a children's book. It is called Fantastic Far-Flung Facts for Fun. The book shares her adventures from different parts of the world. These places include Africa, Asia, South America, and Madagascar.

Exploring the World

Her book is full of interesting facts she learned during her travels. It also includes many photos that Mary took herself. She believes in the saying: "Leave only footprints, take only memories .........and photos!" Mary enjoys traveling and holds a PADI Open Water Scuba Diving licence. This means she is trained to explore underwater worlds.

Charity Work

Mary is very involved in helping others. She supports many charities that work for the welfare of children and animals.

Helping Children and Animals

She has spent time working with children who have AIDS. This was at a modern hospital in Bucharest, Romania, called Dr Victor Babes. Mary is also the junior patron for the Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA). This organization helps protect animals.