I actually knew Sinead O'Connor before she was Sinead O'Connor

Economist David says pair bonded as kids at aunts' prayer parties

- MARISA MACKLE

DAVID McWilliams has opened up about his extraordinary childhood friendship with Sinead O' Connor, who tragically passed away last week.

The economist told of his family connection to the singer, 56, on his podcast.

He said: "I actually knew Sinead O'Connor before she was Sinead O'Connor.

"The first time I met her was on St Stephen's Day of 1979. My father had three unmarried sisters - my aunties who lived in Bray - and they were quite religious."

David said they got involved with religious movement the Charismatic Catholic renewal, which was all about being born again.