Anne's early life was marked by a significant move from her birthplace of Newcastle Upon Tyne to Redcar, which occurred as a result of the outbreak of World War II. This relocation would have a profound impact on her formative years. At White House School, Anne had the opportunity to hone her acting skills, sharing the stage with her future colleague June Laverick in a production of Romeo and Juliet.
As she grew older, Anne was sent to Penrose College, a prestigious boarding school located in North Wales. At the tender age of 11, she became a member of the school's choir, an experience that would likely have instilled in her a deep appreciation for music and performance.
Anne's family boasted a rich tradition of journalism, with her father following in the footsteps of his grandfather, uncle, and three brothers who were all accomplished journalists. He went on to become a special correspondent for the Daily Telegraph, a position that would have undoubtedly inspired Anne's own pursuits.
In her teenage years, Anne took elocution lessons and began to appear in school plays, which caught the attention of a supportive teacher who recognized her natural talent. This mentorship ultimately paved the way for Anne to secure a spot at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
After completing her studies at RADA, Anne worked behind the scenes as a stage manager and appeared in various repertory productions. Her early foray into television involved collaborating with the renowned comedian Benny Hill on a series of sketches. However, Anne's acting career came to a temporary halt in 1974, only to be rekindled 12 years later in 1986.
It was during this second stint as an actress that Anne made a name for herself, taking on the iconic role of Valerie Barlow in the long-running television soap Coronation Street. This part would go on to cement her status as a beloved and respected figure in the world of British television.
