The day aims to combine a whole range of fun activities to celebrate the legendary giant, and Jane will be looking after the artistic side of the event, in particular ‘Finn’s Giant Parade’.

Jane went to school at St Michael’s Senior High and later attended UBIFHE Lurgan where she did her Foundation Studies in Art and Design. From here she went to Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Design in Dundee where she gained a BA in Constructed Textiles.

Following a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Arts at the University of Ulster Belfast, Jane began working freelance as an artist and facilitator with schools and community groups in Belfast. In more recent years she has been increasingly working closer to home particularly with Craigavon Borough Council.

“My latest job has been as creative co-ordinator for the Finn McCool event,” said Jane. “A lot of work has gone into this with teams of artists working across the Craigavon area creating elements of scenery, props and costumes which will be displayed in their full glory on the day.

“Having worked on large parades and events in the past I know how much work and preparation is involved in creating something on this scale. Everyone on the team has been hard at it working in local community centres, and youth groups in preparation for the big event..”

If you could trade places with anyone else for the day who would it be and why?

Nobody. I’m quite happy with things the way they are.

Describe your perfect day...

When things go well my perfect day is at work. Other than that, waking up somewhere on the west coast with a decent beach and a pair of walking boots is equally good.

Have you had any regrets in life?

No. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason but give me a few more years and ask me that again!

If you could change your job what would you do instead?

I think if I were ever to retrain it would be something to do with horticulture or gardening. Both sides of my family are very green fingered and I would love to have my own garden and have some time to learn more about that side of things.

Party animal or slouch potato?

Bit of both. It generally depends on how the week has gone.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years time?

I definitely see myself still in a creative position hopefully still doing some more of the same. I love being self employed and knowing that I never have to work a nine to five or have the same day twice. There is so much scope in this work you can be working with toddlers in the morning and teenagers in the afternoon

Who or what has been the most influential force in your life?

I have been lucky enough to have some very strong female role models. My grandmothers andI was also fortunate to have had a teacher at primary school, Ruby Donnelly.