Vera Lynn

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

“I felt very greatly honoured to be given a Damehood and never expected to receive anything else. So for Her Majesty to bestow a further accolade on me is very unexpected and I feel even more honoured.”

“When I started out, I was what they called corny. After a week in Nashville they were calling me hillbilly.”

“You know, your voice can only last for so long. It's a muscle and when you get older it sort of fades away.”

“People often ask me for the secret to success. Usually, they mean success in the music industry, but I think the answer applies to most things in life: always persevere and never give up.”

“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 work came along I liked, I would do it. If it interfered with home life for too long or took me away, I wouldn't.”

“Dad, who worked as a plumber, was a quiet and undemanding man who liked to laugh - and he was a very good dancer.”

“I'm keen on the sun, so weather is an important ingredient for a perfect holiday.”

“I am delighted to learn that the small part I played in the campaign to protect the white cliffs of Dover has been so effective.”

“On one occasion I had to sleep on a stretcher balanced on two kitchen chairs. It wasn't glamorous.”

“You can't do an awful lot about getting older but you shouldn't let it stop you from doing what you want to do.”

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

“Getting an upset tummy is never pleasant, and it's worse if you get a funny tummy a long way from home.”

“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.”

“Basically, country is my kind of music - the simple melody, the simple lyrics.”

“I've liked country music for as long as I can remember, especially the songs of Dolly Parton. Her lyrics are similar to mine: simple, expressive, from the heart. Our voices are in the same kind of register, too.”

“I'm delighted people still enjoy my music all these years later.”

“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.”

“No, I never sing in the bath. In fact, I've never even practised singing. I would only ever sing indoors if I had to learn a song with my pianist.”