Musician

When I was a toddler, I fell ill with diphtheritic croup and was taken to an isolation unit. One of my earliest memories is of being on my own in a tent surrounded by steaming kettles.

Singing in the jungle was very hot and very sticky, which was a bit hard going. I had a little piano, which they trudged around on the back of a lorry, hoping it would survive the journeys.

Over many years, I have been a supporter of the National Trust and the vital work that they do in preserving our heritage and landscapes - long may this continue.

I have a Children's Charity in Cuckfield, West Sussex, which helps young children affected by cerebral palsy and associated disorders. The perseverance these young people display every day is inspirational.

If somebody makes a record, no matter how many years later it's released, they or their families should be entitled to the proceeds.

I think I have got a peculiar voice really, it neither one thing nor the other. It's not a contralto and it's not a mezzo soprano; it's a nothing voice really.

The white cliffs of Dover are a significant landmark and it is so encouraging to know that they will now be protected for future generations.

I was very privileged to enjoy The Queen Mother's company on many occasions. She was relaxed and informal - she would just sit down for a chat.

I never thought that I would share a hit parade with the Beatles.

I am exceptionally fond of all the brave servicemen and women who have worked, and continue to work, to keep us safe and secure, and protect our values.

I used to go from place to place by tram. A shilling would take you all around London and the suburbs.

I have always managed to combine my family life and my career, but there came a point when I had to choose between a career in America and my family. I chose my family.

Our family didn't have a lot of money, so my brother, parents and I spent our holidays at Southend-on-Sea.

I try not to worry too much about anything any more, and enjoy every day as it comes.

So many go into the business just to be famous, not because they are passionate about their craft.

So many older people are on a very small budget and just wouldn't be able to afford a TV licence.

In so many ways, World War II was one of the lowest lows imaginable, yet some of my most treasured memories come from that time. Communities came together, people displayed a wonderful generosity of spirit and I saw the bravery of our boys on the front line as they fought for our freedom.

I seem to have had quite a lot of pink dresses.

I never smoked myself because it lowers your voice and mine was already low. Some singers liked their smoky voices though, like Marlene Dietrich.

Dover is part of England. It simply can't be part of anywhere else.