Dame Sheila Hancock – In her nineties but refusing to be defined by her age.

Sheila Hancock tells Katherine that since turning ninety she’s been treated differently and says you have to battle against the limitations that society puts on you as you age.  

Born in 1933, Sheila has been on our stage and screen for 70 years but in latter years has been best known for her writing.  She says the global political atmosphere now is reminiscent of the years before  World War Two and her and her contemporaries are alarmed.  But she says, with great troubles can come great change.

She still misses her late husband John Thaw, who died 25 years ago, but says her curiosity and grandchildren keep her young.  She admits she has on occasion used the power of her title, Dame, to get tables in restaurants and get her own way!

Dr Nichola Conlon and Sheila discuss how loneliness and isolation can impact on your biological age and Nichola talks about the difference between your life span and health span.   Nichola applauds Sheila, who has just joined a gym and says, you are never too old to exercise and build muscle.

This interview was recorded before VE day.

Lead producer– Henrietta Harrison

Social media -   Cassidy Rebelo

Video Producer – Elena Cotton

Video Producer– David May

Artwork – Ben Watkins 

Video Editor -  Paul Collins-Reddin 

Head of Video – Edie Jefferys

Sound Designer – Dominic Delargy

Chief CreatIve Officer – Lucie Cave