Storyteller

I am a professional, emotive, free flowing speaker with TV and Radio experience. My Talks are inspirational, fun and informative. From small village halls to large corporate events I am at home wherever people long to listen. Country life just as it is, with all the tears and triumphs.

If you would like to hear my story please choose from the three talk titles below

Enquire

“The sparkling delivery of the Shepherdess in her talk, belies the hardship of life in the dales, with great humour her determination to succeed shines through.”

Angela Whitworth
Clitheroe Lady Farmers

Back to the Land

My story of tears, triumphs and true grit. I was born into a farming family who sold up in the 1970’s. I vowed to “one day” have my own hill farm. I took on the tenancy of Shacklabank Farm in 1999 with a mere £60 in my pocket, no sheep or cows, no tractor or trailer and heavily with-child. During this talk I share my journey, its challenges, heart wrenching decisions and seasonal hardships, whilst celebrating my freedom, happiness and achievements.

“The W.I.’S motto is ” Inspiring women” Alison O’Neill fits the bill, a sensational speaker, attracting our biggest audience ever.”

Christine Sharples
Beetham W.I.

Wool is my Bread

My story of wool. As a single mother I had to find a way to make the farm pay enough to survive. I share the uphill struggle to develop a unique range of native breed tweeds with total provenance. The frustrations, learning curves and challenges. A journey and process from flock to shop. Shepherdess brand was born.

“For nearly one hour Alison held the audience spellbound, she did not need props or pictures but simply told her life story.”

Judi Webster
Lyth Valley Ladies

Walking with Wainwright

A light hearted talk centred around my love of walking, my time as a hill guide and Barefoot Shepherdess. I share the joys of my many long distance walks and my walking companions from Clare Balding Radio 4 Ramblings, Matt Baker BBC Country-file to leading the Ladies Yomp in 2019 for charity.

“Alison O’Neill’s talk was as refreshing as a lovely walk on a fell top on a sunny day. Not only did she captivate the audience with her natural charm and humour; she enthralled us with farming tales of hardship and humour. A delight, she inspired us all.”

Martin Clarkson Director
Individual Inns