Hugh McNeill – Glass Cutter, Engraver and Podcaster
Hugh McNeill was born in Coventry at the end of 1959, the second oldest of three boys and a girl. His parents, Pat and Nell McNeill, were Irish migrants who had moved to Coventry after the war to contribute to the rebuilding efforts. In 1974, when Hugh’s mother fell ill, she returned to Ireland, and Hugh began living with his Auntie Jo in the picturesque village of Crosshaven at the mouth of Cork Harbour.
Hugh spent his teenage years happily swimming and boating with friends, living in his aunt’s pub, Cronin’s Bar, renowned as one of the best pubs in Ireland.
Towards the end of one summer, while discussing potential job opportunities, Hugh was overheard by local resident Eddie Flavin, who offered him a chance to try glass cutting and engraving at his small glass company. Eddie Flavin, a Master Glass Cutter who had worked for Waterford Crystal, encouraged Hugh to give it a try for a few weeks. What started as a few weeks turned into an apprenticeship and eventually led to a 30-year career in the glass industry in Ireland. During this time, Hugh was commissioned to create pieces for notable figures including Michael Jackson, Pope John Paul II, the Prime Minister of Ireland Micheál Martin, Manchester United footballer and pundit Roy Keane, rugby players Peter O’Mahony, Ronan O’Gara, Peter Stringer, and a trophy for Liverpool Football Club for a friendly match against an Irish XI.
After more than 30 years in the glass trade, Hugh decided to change career and began working with the YMCA and other similar organisations, supporting vulnerable individuals.
In 2005, Hugh left Ireland and returned to Coventry, Hugh met his wife, Debbie in 2005, and they embarked on a new adventure, living in the New Forest for three years before returning to Coventry.
In 2013, Hugh and Debbie opened a restaurant in Warwick. Unfortunately, the venture did not go well, and within a year they had lost everything, including their home. During this challenging time, Hugh sought help from the local foodbank and began volunteering there. After several months, he became the project manager of Coventry Foodbank, one of the largest foodbanks in the UK. Hugh has dedicated his life to supporting others with help, advice, and food, but he has always had a passion for everything handmade.
Hugh shares, “Since childhood, I have always cherished handmade items, captivated by the incredible craftsmanship people can achieve.
With my new podcast, ‘Made with These Hands,’ I aim to highlight and support craftspeople from across the country and beyond. I also hope to inspire the next generation to take up crafting.” Despite his busy schedule, Hugh continues to find joy in his occasional glass engraving, maintaining his connection to the craft that shaped much of his life.
His story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of dedication and passion. Through his work at the foodbank and his podcast, Hugh remains committed to making a positive impact on his community and supporting the art of craftsmanship. As he looks to the future, Hugh hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions and support those in need, believing that everyone has the potential to create something beautiful and meaningful.