Shane MacGowan Irish in London and the United States, and London life in general. These influences are documented in the biography, "Rake at the Gates of Hell: Shane MacGowan in Context". MacGowan has often cited the 19th-century Irish poet James Clarence Mangan and playwright Brendan Behan as influences. Between 1985 and 1987, he co-wrote "Fairytale of New York", which he performed with Kirsty MacColl. In the coming years MacGowan and The Pogues released several albums. In 1997, MacGowan appeared on Lou Reed's "Perfect Day", covered by numerous artists in aid of Children in Need. It was the UK's number one single for
Christmas in Ireland Ireland in 2009, with "Happy Xmas" topping a similar poll cast in Northern Ireland. The Christmas music of British singer Cliff Richard is most popular with those over the age of 55. The Irish number one single for Christmas is announced on Christmas Eve every year. Santa Claus, "Daidí na Nollag" (lit. Daddy of Christmas) in Irish and traditionally "Father of Christmas" in Irish English, is known in Ireland as "Santy" or "Santa". He brings presents to children in Ireland, which are opened on Christmas morning. It is traditional to leave a mince pie and a bottle or a glass