The legendary Beverley Sisters proved you're never too old to get a buzz out of showbiz.

Joy, Babs and Teddie - well into pensionable age - can still kick as high as their days as bill-toppers in the 1950s.

And they wowed an audience with a routine of songs and comedy when they opened a retirement complex in Ilkley.

The trio were warmly applauded as they were introduced by managing director Howard Phillips to residents and guests at Carnegie Court, a retirement development of 50 privately-owned flats in Spring Lane.

After a jokey presentation, performed in front of the fireplace in the complex's lounge, they delighted their audience by singing, unaccompanied, Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree and How Much Is That Doggy In The Window?

Beverley Sister Teddie told the Telegraph & Argus: "This is first time we have been to Ilkley and it is wonderful countryside - the real England.

"It's a pleasure to be here and to sing and entertain these people."

She said the trio were trying to find a second base outside London, and Ilkley was an option. She added that they will be meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace this summer and will be opening the Gay Games in London in July. They will also be performing at a similar event for 40,000 people in Manchester in August.

For two other sisters, the day was a dream come true.

Guests Barbara Houseman, of Addingham, and Sue Smith, from County Cork, celebrated their 50th birthdays by meeting the stars after reading about the event in the T&A's sister paper, the Ilkley & Burley Target.

Barbara said: "We are real fans of theirs. They looked great - just like us! We associate with them because they are sisters. It was marvellous to see them in the flesh."Visitor Liz Higgins, from Chapel Lane, Ilkley, said: "I had not expected them to be as amusing as they were. Their comedy routine, which looked so natural, was very entertaining.

"They were so friendly and chatty, it was really good to see them. I had seen them on TV but it was nothing like seeing them for real."

Resident Margaret Saltmarsh added: "It was the first time I've seen them and it worked very well for this sort of group."

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