Hill House residents enjoy Q&A with 70's girl band member from 'The Pearls'

Bupa volunteer, Annie Simmons, has left residents star struck after holding a Q&A on her time in popular 1970s duo, The Pearls.

Annie, who volunteers at Hill House Bupa Care Home in Elstree, sat down with residents over afternoon tea where she showcased photographs and shared her experiences from her time in the music industry.

After beginning her singing career in the 1950s, the 81-year-old songstress has had many highlights throughout the years, including her time as a member of Liverpudlian musical ensemble, The Vernons Girls.

Named after the football pool where the band first formed, The Vernons Girls appeared on the first teenage all-music show on British TV in the late 50s, Oh Boy!

Produced by Jack Good for ITV, the show saw the discovery of many artists, including Sir Cliff Richard.

In 1972, Annie and fellow band member, Lyn Cornell, left the ensemble to form The Pearls. The duo released a total of 12 singles, with their greatest hit ‘Guilty’ reaching no.10 in the UK Singles Chart in June 1974.

Speaking of her singing career, Annie told residents: “It was a wonderful job that gave me confidence and allowed me to meet so many famous people.” Following the loss of her husband, Annie began volunteering at Hill House in February as a means to socialise and make new friends.

Annie helps at the home by talking with residents and assisting with handing out tea in the afternoon. Since joining the care home as a volunteer, she has received a badge for her dedication and the efforts she has made.

Manager at the home, Ben Domah, said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to have Annie help us out at the home. It’s great to bring in new faces – many of our residents aren’t mobile so having people visit us really helps keep everyone socialising. “When we heard of Annie’s star-studded background, we thought it would be great to have her sit down with everyone and share her stories – which we all loved.”

Annie added: “I like volunteering at Hill House Bupa Care Home because it gives me the opportunity to give something back. I enjoy chatting to the residents and staff at the home – we have a laugh together.”

As well as volunteering at the home, Annie enjoys looking after her recently born grandchild and is currently writing a book about her life.

She said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to live an interesting life and with so many stories from my musical career, I wanted to be able to share it in a book. My stories seemed to go down well at Hill House, so it has helped inspire me to complete it.”

Bupa Hill House welcomes anyone in need of nursing or residential care. Residents are offered a full programme of regular and seasonal activities, as well as 24-hour access to highly trained medical and care staff.

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