National treasure: Cilla Black

Cilla Black is an entertainer and most well known for her TV programme ‘Blind Date’ which lasted for 380 shows! However, before her career in presenting, Cilla was a singer and notched up 19 top 40 singles (including two number 1 hits!) and numerous sold out concerts around the world.

Cilla (born Priscilla Maria Veronica White) knew from a young age she wanted to be a part of the entertainment business, she was often found in ‘the clubs to be’ like The Cavern – where The Beatles performed!

She soon became a celebrity in her neighbourhood, even performing alongside The Beatles. Her stage name however was not so well planned, it came after a music paper misprinted her name and put Cilla Black instead of White, the name instantly stuck!

In 1999, Cilla was awarded an OBE for her successes in the entertainment industry. In 2013 Cilla will celebrate 50 years in the business, and she is still going strong! THIS is why she is our national treasure and why this month she features in our proud to be British moments.

Image credit:  visual.dichotomy