Smerrick wench became a bostin’ soap opera star
DO YOU remember the TV series Crossroads? For almost a quarter of a century it was one of Britain’s most popular soap operas, drawing in audiences of 15 million at its peak and occasionally knocking Coronation Street off the top spot.
However, the series certainly had its critics, given plenty of ammunition with the show’s low production values, wobbly sets and the tendency for some of the cast to forget their lines.
One of the best-loved Crossroads characters was kitchen assistant and cleaning lady Amy Turtle, played by veteran actress Ann George, her popularity enhanced by Ann being one of the show’s worst culprits when it came to fluffing her lines or having difficulties with props.
Ann was born in Smethwick in 1903 and began her career in entertainment as a singer, appearing at local theatres in musicals and Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. She later had a cabaret act, singing and telling jokes, taking the stage name Ann George from her first husband George Snape, with whom she had a son, also named George.
Stardom
Ann rose to national stardom in 1965, when she joined the cast of Crossroads around one year after the series began broadcasting. The series was not broadcast by all ITV regions until 1972, ushering in the show’s peak in popularity. Mary Wilson, wide of Prime Minister Harold Wilson, was a fan and Paul Mccartney recorded a version of the theme tune.
Changes to the production team saw Ann axed from the series in 1976, her character departing the Crossroads Motel to live with her nephew in Texas.
Return
Ann resumed the role of Amy Turtle in 1987, despite being in failing health. Her return was hoped to revive the flagging fortunes of the series but it was to no avail and Crossroads was cancelled in 1988.
Ann George passed away after a long battle with cancer on September 8, 1989, aged 86, but she is still fondly remembered by Crossroads fans to this day. ■ Did you know Ann George? Details of her life story are sparse and we would welcome and information readers may have. Please contact the Black Country Bugle, Dudley Archives Centre, Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ, call 01384 889000 or email dshaw@ blackcountrybugle.co.uk