Anne Shelton

Anne Shelton (born Patricia Jacqueline Sibley; 10 November 1923 – 31 July 1994) was a popular English vocalist, who is remembered for providing inspirational songs for soldiers both on radio broadcasts, and in person, at British military bases during the Second World War. During the 1950s and 60s, Shelton had success on the UK Singles Chart, topping the listings in 1956 with "Lay Down Your Arms".

Early life Shelton was born on 10 November 1923 in Dulwich, South London.

Singing career In May 1940 at age 16, she appeared on the BBC talent radio show Monday Night at Eight and sang "Let the Curtain Come Down". The British dance band leader Bert Ambrose heard her performance, and signed her to sing with his orchestra. She made her first broadcast with Ambrose in June 1940 and she soon made her first solo record for Rex Records, "I Can't Love You Any More", backed with "Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear to Tread)". In January 1941 she commenced weekly radio broadcasts with Jack Payne and his orchestra.

Shelton performed at military bases in Britain during World War II. Her radio programme, Calling Malta, was broadcast from 1942 to 1947. In 1944, she was invited by Glenn Miller to sing in France with him and his orchestra. She declined because of prior commitments. Miller died during this tour when his plane crashed.

She also had a Top 10 hit in 1961 with her cover version of "Sailor". Numerous compilation albums of her work have been released, including Early Years: Lili Marlene and At Last: The Very Best. Shelton's Dulwich residence at 142 Court Lane was awarded a Blue Plaque by Southwark London Borough Council in 2007.

Personal life Shelton was married to David Reid, a lieutenant commander in the Royal Navy, from 1958 until he died in 1990. She is buried at Camberwell New Cemetery, Brenchley Gardens, Camberwell, London.

Discography Chart singles Year Single Chart Positions US UK 1949 "Be Mine" 25 – "Galway Bay" 27 – 1955 "Arrivederci Darling" – 17 1956 "Seven Days" – 20 "Lay Down Your Arms" 59 1 1959 "The Village of St. Bernadette" – 27 1961 "Sailor" – 10