Our residents at Loose Valley Care Home were delighted to welcome back the wonderful Pearly Queen Sue on Monday 10 November for a traditional East End singalong – and what a joyful afternoon it was!
A Sparkling East End Celebration
Sue brought all the energy and warmth of London’s East End with her, performing much-loved Cockney and wartime classics that had everyone singing, clapping and waving their flags proudly. The atmosphere was full of fun, especially when Sue led the room in a spirited rendition of “Land of Hope and Glory.”
The Story Behind the Pearly Buttons
Between songs, Sue shared the fascinating story behind the Pearly Kings and Queens, a long-standing London tradition built on community spirit and charity. Her dazzling outfit, adorned with hundreds of buttons, has a special story too – her jacket once belonged to her late mother and Sue lovingly sewed every button onto her skirt and waistcoat herself. The shimmering buttons, mostly made of mother-of-pearl, are what inspired the name of the famous Pearly Royalty.
Sue also spoke with great affection about her family and her grandson, who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive muscle-wasting condition. It’s a cause very close to her heart and one of the key reasons she continues performing – raising funds and awareness for the charities that support families like hers.
It was a wonderful afternoon filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt moments. A huge thank you to Pearly Queen Sue for bringing so much joy, sparkle, and inspiration to our Home once again.
