The Ladybirds

The Ladybirds were a British female vocal group who became one of the most recognisable session and television backing ensembles of the 1960s and 1970s, best known for their regular appearances on Top of the Pops. Formed in 1962, the group became a staple of BBC light entertainment, performing on a wide range of radio and television programmes. The Ladybirds first appeared on Top of the Pops in the mid-1960s, providing live vocal backing for artists and the show's in-house orchestra during an era when many performances were either mimed or re-recorded in the studio. They worked closely with musical director Johnny Pearson and producer Johnnie Stewart, helping to create the seamless sound that characterised TOTP's early live editions. The Ladybirds continued working on TOTP until 1978. Outside Top of the Pops, The Ladybirds were a mainstay of BBC variety television, performing regularly on The Benny Hill Show, The Two Ronnies, and Morecambe & Wise, as well as numerous light-entertainment specials and recording sessions.
Members of The Ladybirds included:

• Maggie Stredder
• Marian Davies
• Gloria George
• Penny Lister
• Ann Simmons
• Laura Lee
• Tracy Miller
• Barbara Moore
• Joan Baxter
• Kay Garner
• Vicki Robinson
• Sylvia King