The Nolans - Denise Nolan - The Official Website

There have been hundreds of girl groups throughout the years on the music scene. Few, if any, can claim to have had the success or the enduring appeal of the Nolans. Their parents were successful singers in their own right in post war Dublin as the 'Sweethearts of Song'.  Maureen Nolan Snr visited Blackpool in the late 1950's and was impressed with the town's entertainment scene. Although Dublin was a large city, it's entertainment scene centred around Dance Halls with resident singers and Theatres. Both Tommy and Maureen had residencies at local Dance halls but the chances of getting more work were slim. She was offered work in Blackpool and in her mind she had set her sights on the famous resort as a new base.  On her return to Dublin Mrs. Nolan retold her story to her husband and insiststed he see it for himself.  A second trip was hastily arranged, this time she was accompanied by her husband, Tommy. The two of them realised the potential for work in the town was huge. With it's dozens of Theatres, Showbars, Cabaret lounges and Working Men's Clubs. Tommy was imprerssed. Soon after the whole family relocated to the UK. (Minus Anne who was in hospital for months with a leg condition)  Work was plentiful, but Tommy Nolan did take a day job to supplement his earnings. Very quickly singing work came flooding in. As a pre taster of Summer Seasons to come, the family even secured a Summer long run at the town's 'Central Club' where they starred with a pre fame Freddie Starr in 1971. They went onto comoplete three Summer Shows at Blackpool's 'Brunswick Club'. The Working Men's Club scene was so popular in BLackpool that concert secretaries would host audition nights and block book artists rather than have single auditions. The season in Blackpool is the longest in the UK and in the early 1970's ran from Easter until the beginning of November. The 'Sweethearts of Song' were quickly replaced though as one by one the children came along and one by one the children made their stage debut. The family had a rota system for taking certain members  of the family on certain nights, where they were usually allowed to sing. As the girls grew older they took on a bigger role in the act.  A babysitting error one night meant that all ten of the family were to appear on stage together. It brought the house down. A standing ovation was earned and showbiz history was made.  Such was the instant success that the act was now renamed  - "The Singing Nolans".  Bernie was to joke several years later "It was clever that wasn't it? We were Nolans and we sang".  Their act sang popular chart hits and medleys from films, including their versions of songs from 'The Sound Of Music'. That film made such an impression on the girls that they reportedly went to see it at the cinema 18 times. Thier Father could not understand why they wanted to see the film so much until he went to see it for himself. He was impressed with the music, certainly, but he understood why almost immediately. What he saw was a striking resemblence with the on screen family to his own. The film must have made a similar impression on his as their business cards soon even had the subtext "Blackpool's Own Von Trapp Family"

The family recorded the album "The Singing Nolans" for the independent label Nevis in 1972. The album was recorded in one day and was sold locally at the family's shows. It remains a major Nolans collectable today,  often reaching bids of more than £100 on auction sites. A Christmas EP and a single 'Blackpool' were also recorded. The 'Blackpool' single was written for the town's football club and was, until a couple of years ago, played on the ground's PA system before each match.  The single also had a more poppy B Side- 'Apple Pie'. These three releases are constantly sourced by new NOlans fans to add to their collections

Growing up in show business meant that there was never any pressure on the children to go on stage, they just loved it. Denise Nolan was probably the most keen to sing in front of an audience.  She was legendary within the family for her tantrums if it wasn't her turn to work with her parents.  When she did appear as a teenager she recalls a tremendous anticipation as she came into the clubs.

"People used to nudge their friends and say that "That's the one there!" Because they knew that although I was only a n 11 year old, that I could handle songs like Cilla B;ack's 'Anyone Who Had a Heart' or Bassey's 'This Is My Life'  It may seem big headed, but the audiences really did love us and we went down a storm."

A well documented fact was that The Singing Nolans, as the act was now called, were spotted during an unscheduled Christmas Day booking. The family always spent Christmas Day together without any work. The hotel called as they had been let down by their planned booking. Tommy said they would only work if they were played a staggering £80. Within the hour the hotel called back and agreed to the fee. Tommy had be now stettled in his chair and decided he wasn't going to go. However Maureen quickly prepared herself for the booking. Before very long her daughters had decided that they too would accompany her and share a taxi and  the stage.

The new owner of the Cliffs Hotel, Joe Lewis saw the show and immediately offered the act a residency at his prestigious London nightspot, 'The London Room'. When they later told their Father he scoffed that that the offer was just talk. However the next day the offer was repeated. Subsequently, that evening Mr. Lewis turned up at the Nolan family home and hesitantly Tommy Nolan signed the contract in the presence of Lawyers. Several of the Sisters were not old enough to sign for themselves, but Anne went on to state that if he hadn't signed for the younger children that She, Denise and Maureen would have gone of thier own accord anyway. The family relocated to London, first of all staying in Joe Lewis' London home. There they experienced a house in a fabulous setting. The splendid property had a private swimming pool and tennis courts. This idylic lifesyle was a million miles away from their own and they enjoyed a long, hot Summer as his guests.. It meant that while they were there they could work on thier new act and set about finding a home large enough for the whole Family. Tommy didn't leave Blackpool initially. He stayed with the Brothers Tommy and Brian in Blackpool. The two Brothers had jobs and girlfriends and did not want to leave the town. Eventually a home was found in Ilford, Essex. The property, at 4 Granville Road was, and has since resumed it's role as a Drs. Surgery. Bernie and Linda finished their schooling at Clark's School For Girls in Ilford. Whilst Coleen split her time mainly staying in Blackpool at her Aunty's. She had a horse, which saw the start of something that has remained a pssion of hers since. She did not see a future in showbusiness at all.

Shortly after arriving in London, the Nolan family had to begin work. One of the first things Hanover Grand did was to retire the Nolan Parents. It would seem that this was met with little, if any, resistence by them. Hanover Grand claimed, with good reason, that an act featuring four or five Sisters would have more impact and scope than an act with five Sisters and their Parents. Thus, The Nolan Sisters were born.  To ensure that The Nolan Sisters were ready for their London debut, The Hanover Grand organisation recruited some of the best people in show business to bring a polish to their act. Stewart Morris was recruited early on. Morris was head of the BBC's Light Entertainment Department. He was used to producing shows such as 'Lulu's World' 'The Shirley Bassey Show' and the 'UK Song For Europe' where the country chose a song for the Eurovision Song Contest. Morris had even been responsible for producing the entire Eurovision when it was held in the UK.  Alongside Morris was Nigel Lythgoe, the esteemed choreographer. Lythgoe put the girls through their paces with full dance routines to accompany each of their songs. Several of the girls had a crush on Nigel, who later went on to be judge 'Nasty Ngel' on ITV's 'Pop Idol'. His put downs became the stuff of legend, and he was famed for telling Kym Marsh that she was fat after her Christmas break. For up tempo songs Nigel produced sharp dance routines and balleds were choreographed with slick arm movements or gentle sways in unison. The services of musical arranger John Coleman and Conductor Alyn Ainsworth were sought. Between them, Coleman and Ainsworth had an unmatched record in TV and live music shows. Finally Robert Earle was brought in as their new manager. Earle had had several hits in his own right as a vocalist in the 1950's. He was now a sharp suited, razor sharp manager. Today's would be pop stars employ specially gifted stylists to create a look tor their proteges. The Nolan Sisters were not so fortunate. Their stylist was Earle's wife Daphne. Described as "bossy and posh" Daphne went to work on their costumes, hair and make up.  The five Sisters went to exclusive designer shops to buy their outfits. Daphne's choice was met with derision by five young women who were not impressed with Jaeger's latest designs. They were more suited to women of Daphne's age than a group aged between 13 and 23. Robert Earle had visions of the act becomming a successor to the Beverley Sisters and insisted that they wear the same clothes as each other, both on stage and off stage as well. Some of the outfits for stage pleased the girls. Their first stage outfit was a red cat suit with the letters "NS" emblazened with diamonte. Topped off with a red sequin jacket. They were utterly dismayed at the outfit that was chosen for the second half of the show, a long, floaty, yellow evening dress with a butterfly logo on the breast panel. Soon afterwards other outfits were added.

Above: The initial Nolan Sisters wardrobe (Clcik each picture for full size image)

These stalwarts of the industry were to prove vital to the act's success. Morris, initailly, had been highly critical of the Nolan Sisters' act.  He found fault with their presentation, their harmonies and the chat between numbers. Within six months he and the other members of his team had sharpened the act to such an extent that he was able to report back to the Hanover Grand, The Nolan Sisters, he said,  "Are as good now, if not better than any girl vocal group that you have ever heard or will ever hear". His presence was intimidating. He was feared by most people in the BBC, but he had seen potential in the girls. It had been him, however, who had not seen the same potential in their parents. He very quickly insisted that Hanover Grand retire them from the act, thus  leaving the stage free for the Nolan Sisters.
Working in the London Room brought financial reward in the way of an excellent salary. It did not however allow the girls to earn money in their own right. Earnings from Summer Seasons, TV appearances record royalties and cabaret would see payment to Hanover Grand and not the girls. Whatever lucrative work they may undertake, they were still to be paid a salary from Hanover Grand. Of course, the money was good, several of the gigs were good too. Their Father, still based largely in Blackpool was technically still their manager. He had desided that the three elder girls would have a slightly higher salary than the younger ones, Bernie and Linda. The two youngest Sisters had not yet reached sixteen and so they amount of appearances they made were limited. Strict laws restricted how many TV appearances and live engagements they could undertake. Coleen was invited to London for certain TV appearances that would follow. The limits up to 12 years old were very strict and slightly less so on performers aged 12-15. On this basis Linda and Bernie were able to appear two of three times a week on stage until February 1975 when Linda hit the magical sixteen. Morris brought chart topping star Cliff Richard in to see the Sisters' show one night as he was lookiing for guests on his, yet to air TV show 'It's Cliff'. Cliff's attendance in the audience brought much anxiety backstage. They need not have worried though because Cliff loved them and wanted him on his show. Recording began shortly afterwards. The Nolan Sisters were booked for all six of 'It's Cliff' and this meant a lot of hard work. Each day the six Ssiters left Ilford and travelled across London on the tube to Acton where rehearsals began in ernest. After the day's work they went to London to appear on stage at the London Room.

'It's Cliff' was a huge success, with audiences of eighteen million. Overnight the act had become a household name. they began to be recognised in the street. They loved the attention. Coleen meanwhile headed back to Blackpool and her pony.

In an instant their profile had emerged, and bookings came flooding in. They had been groomed for TV, and their style suited the style of TV variety shows. They were competent singers, looked attractive on TV and not difficult to work with. The Cliff Richard show also brought problems with costumes. Bernie, in particular, hated them. She complained bitterly and refused to wear some outfits. Their 'Stylsit' Daphne reproached her telling her "We won't have any Sarah Bernhardts from you dear." The Nolan Sisters were forced to wear green dresses on their TV debut that appeared to have come from 18th Century Europe. The green was, seemingly, chosen to reflect thier Irishness. Nevertheless Coleen aged 9 was wearing the same outfit that 23 year old was wearing! Other costumes appeared, from pink romper suits to flowered knee length creation like the one below.

The work load was heavy and it was clear that someone was earning a great deal more than they themselves were earning. This was something that would come to a head in later years. Stewart Morris was still very much "hands on" with The Nolan Sisters. He was working with Hanover Grand to give them bookings on TV and elsewhere. No doubt he was paid a considerable fee, but he was arguably responsible for much of their early sucesses. Morris displayed so much faith in The Nolan Sisters that he even gave them their biggest career boost to date when he secured the girl's place as support act to Frank Sinatra on the European leg of his 1975 tour. Playing at first class venues all over Europe. Competition for the tour was fierce with several acts in the running. It has been reported that The Brotherhood of Man and The Three Degrees were also ibeing considered. Altogether five acts were in the running and it was Sinatra himself who made the final choice. Sinatra was a legend in the Nolan household and the joy of working with him was hard to conceal. They were to open the show each night for him for half an hour. They brought along a small band and were able to use Sinatra's orchestra that came complete with a 33 piece string section. During the first show Bernie had a troublesome cough that interrupted her singing. This was partucularly evident when they sang an a cappella version of scarlet ribbons. Initially the audience giggled quietly. By the end of the number they were laughing at loud. Bernie was noticably upset. After the show Sinatra told her "Not to worry honey, it happens."  After each show they were rewarded by being able to see him perform from the wings. Sinatra was complimentary of the girls and announced to the audience that "The kids sound good." He had been alarmed that they had been scheduled to travel from city to city in a coach and insisted that they be given a suitable limo for the journeys. He also presented each of the Sisters with a simple fob on a chain with the words "Peace and love, Frank Sinatra" engraved upon it.  By 1975 they had a full series of "It's Cliff" under their belts and recorded singles on the Target label. They had appeared on 'The Vera Lynn Show' 'The Les Dawson Show' 'The Harry Seacombe Show' and even starred alongside Basil Brush where they sang their single '(Wont You) Make A Little Sunshine Shine'. The following year the Sisters appeared in an eight week Summer Season show at Eastbourne. That year also saw them accompany Rolf Harris as his support act on his South African tour. The Sisters began recording more tracks for the EMI subsidiary 'Target Records'. Altogether a total of nine singles were released, sadly, none of them charted inside the top 40. Figures show that if the charts were compiled as they are now with a top 100 songs then the records would have been minor hits. This might also mean that they could have had more of a chance to promote them and increase their sales. Sadly this was not to be. The singles had  hit  writers such as Roger Cook and Harry Greenaway who had secured huge chart success for other artistes. The singles were given general releases and the lack of chart success did bother The Nolan Sisters. Their disappointment was relatively short lived when in 1978 the Sisters recorded 20 Giant Hits'. The album was recorded, within a week! The project emerged after market research was carried out to find the 20 most popular songs of the day. The album, heavily promoted with TV advertising was a huge hit, climbing as high as number three in the UK album chart. It received gold disc status and when the disc was awarded had already achieved sales of £300,000. Their contract, once more, sadly, meant they were not entitled to royalties.  They also crossed the Atlantic for a series of shows as support act to Englebert Humperdink in New York.

In New York, supporting Engelbert Humperdinck (Click to enlarge)

Denise had decided that she wanted to leave the act and once the promotion for '20 Giant Hits' was completed she left. She had said that if the act would suffer, she would stay. But it was agreed that she would leave. Her swansong was a weel long engagement with frankie Valli at London's Palladium Theatre. Tommy was looking at the Nolans management structure and wondered if they would be better off if he were to once again manage them. The contract however was for five years, and they had worked only four of them. The contract was indeed to be broken after only four years. The two parties had to haggle over the amount but a settlement was eventually reached. This severely dented the family bank balance but it meant that Tommy was once again steering the act. The music industry is extemely tough and Tommy did seem out of his depth with some of the harsher aspects of the negotiations. Initially, the Sisters had been willilng to sign very unfavourable contracts. Although success was achieved, it was at a heavy financial price. One startlinig fact came when they were presented with bills for their costumes. The very costumes they had hated. They had assumed they were being paid for by their management, as they were salaried. It emerged that the contract had stated that everything that was purchased to promote the Nolan Sisters was to be paid by the Nolan Sisters. When they heard the news, they took great delight in cutting them to pieces.

They had built up a significant reputation in the industry as reliable workers and good box office so securing work would not be difficult.

They had built up a significant reputation in the industry as reliable workers and good box office so securing work would not be difficult. Denise's departure would be a big loss to the group and the Sisters would miss her very much. Denise had been a significant contributor to the vocal performance of the act, often singing the melody or lead. As Bernie said at the time "We will miss her, not only her presence on stage, but because she has the best voice."  The act couldn't dwell too much on Denise's departure as they had to rehearse for that year's Summer Season show as a foursome. Coleen's age had meant that throughout the early part of their career she had to be excluded from all but 80 engagements a year. On a lighter note, when the Nolan Sisters offered to fly Coleen to Paris to meet Frank Sinatra she declined, preferring to stay in Blackpool with her pony. Coleen was to miss out too on the Humperdinck tour, the South Aftrica Tour with Rolf Harris and the Summer Season show in Blackpool in 1978. The 1978's show was to be at the ABC Theatre in their adoptive home town. The show was to feature acclaimed Irish Brother vocal act 'The Bachelors' and comedian Billy Dainty. Denise had agreed to stay with the group whilst the '20 Giant Hits' was being promoted.  An  interesting feature about the front cover of this album is that Linda is not on it!  She was ill with diarrhoea on the day the pictures were taken and was unable to make the photo shoot. A look alike was sourced and used. It was not noticed by anyone and still today most people are unaware of it. However when the album was given a makeover and released in Japan in 1981 the pictures are a lot clearer and feature close ups. It can clearly be seen that the person who is purporting to be Linda is a fake! Denise's departure, meant she sadly missed out on a major career highlight for the Nolan Sisters - The Royal Variety Performance - at the London Palladium. The Sisters still rank this as one of the best things they have ever undertaken. They also appeared with Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons as mentioned, but a funny recollection from that show was that at the end of their set the girls sang the Andy Williams song "Happy Heart" The producer of the show wanted Denise to kneel in front of the rest of the girls as the song reached it's cresendo. Denise protested that the move would not be successful as dropping to one knee and nerves didn't go together. During rehearsals the song was completed without a hitch. The opening night her fears were realised when, at the end of the song, Denise dropped to one knee and promptly fell over, spreadegle in front of thousands of people in the audience!

The Nolan Sisters were selected to sing a possible entry for the 1979 Eurovision Song Contest. The catchy tune "Harry My Honolulu Lover" was rehearsed to perfection as the girls took to the stage at London's Royal Albert Hall early in 1979. Disaster struck when a technician's strike resulted in the judges and audience not being able to see them perform their song. In fact the strike was over a simple backstage fight! Two technicians had indeed, resorted to fisticuffs over a petty dispute. When one of them was dismissed and the other not, the ever powerful 70's unions became involved. No one dared cross the picket line and chaos ensued. the show was cancelled, the audience sent home and acts sent to hotels. The audience at home heard the songs on tape. Judges were to vote on the songs that they too had heard on  tape, they could not see the actual performance. The song had an impressive dance routine and the girls felt it would have added weight to their chances. Further confusion ensued when the North West region could not be contacted. They gave their results the next day. It was felt that they would mark the Nolans highly as they had a strong following in that region. However the judges selected Black Lace, relegating the Nolans to fourth place.  The Black Lace song 'Mary Ann' went on to have the dubious distinction of gaining the worst result UK result in the contest's history to date. The BBC had been convinced the Nolan Sisters would win and had secured booking across Europe, including a spot at the Montreux Music Festival. Press coverage saw a p icture of Anne crying in the back of a car being driven away. Featuring the headline "The Sore Losers". The Nolans were heartbroken at the result. They felt that they had been stolen of the chance to sing their song properly, in front of a live audience. Their act is known to be highly visual and their live vocals are always impressinve. Bitterly disappointed as they were, there would to be no time to dwell on things as they had recently secured a deal with Epic Records.  At this time, Tommy had recently taken over as the girl's manager once more. He had negotiated with several record labels, most notably Epic and Warner Brothers. Epic had been selected as they had wanted to market the Nolans as young pop stars. Ben Findon, Mike Myers and Robert Puzey were a highly respected songwriting team who had penned most of the hits for The Dooleys and Billy Ocean. They were recruited to create the first Epic album for them

The eponymous "The Nolan Sisters" was released that year and  featured cover versions and a host of new songs. Coleen was also featured on the album both vocally and on the front cover. Her first appearance on a general release Nolans track since 1974. Robert Puzey happened to comment shortly after that, had 'Spirit Body and Soul' been released after 'Dancing'  it would have, he believes, had more of an impact on the charts than it did as the album's first release.. The Girls were booked for a three month Summer Season at Cleethorpes. The show was a record breaker, smashing all box office records, leaving the girls with very little free time. As they had to appear twice nightly in Cleethorpes they could not travel to London to lay vocals down for the album. That had been decided to be released as quickly as possible on the back of their recent sucesses. In view of this problem Epic and Ben Findon decided to take a studio to Cleethorpes. Two mobile studio vans were parked outside their rented Summer accomodation and during the day they would record vocals. In the evening they would entertain the audiences in the theatre. It was incredibly hard work and for two weeks the Sisters had very little time off. The first Epic single to be released - 'Spirit Body And Soul', actually charted! Although not a huge commercial success it's entry ensured an appearance on 'Top Of The Pops' which, at the time, was the UK's most successful TV music show. This appearance was also another ambition realised for Anne, Maureen Bernie and Linda. The single stalled at number 34, but the new look and style was certainly working. The second release however went onto become the Nolans signature tune and stormed the charts Worldwide. Anne, Maureen Bernie and Linda - Now renamed 'The Nolans' had recorded the song in early 1979 and Initially they didn't like it. 'I'm In The mood For Dancing' was released in the winter of 1979 and by January 1980 it has climed as high as number 3 in the UK charts and number one in 14 countries including Japan where it became the first none Japanese song to do so since Simon and Garfunkel's  'The Sound Of Silence'. It was to be the first time they had recorded a promotional video. Coleen was invited to take part in the filming. She was just 14 at the time! Cabaret and concert gigs continued until the end of the year when the now exhausted family took a holiday to America. 1980 kicked of with more live shows. They also appeared on TV shows all across Europe promoting 'Dancing'. Anne had now married footballer Brian Wilson and was planning to retire from singing. Fortunately for everyone the Summer Season booking that year was in Blackpool. They were to appear alongside impressionist Mike Yarwood for a 16 week run. As Blackpool is quite close to Manchester the recording of the next album was to take place there. The Sisters could easily reach the city and still be back for evening performances. They had by now, recruited a full time musical director previously, a luxury they had never had since leaving Hanover Grand. Two singles had been recorded and released as  pre tasters for the forthcoming album. 'Don't Make Waves'  featuring Anne and Bernie on lead, peaked just outside the top ten at number twelve and 'Gotta Pull Myself Together' went top ten in the Summer reaching as high as number nine. The Summer show at Blackpool drew to a close in October 1980 and Anne made her swansong at the theatre. As the Sisters, with Anne on lead, sang the haunting 'Miss You Nights' Anne broke down in tears, realising that this was to be last time she was to sing with her Sisters. Coleen stepped onto the stage from the wings and finished the song. She was still only 15 and couldn't joing the group full time until March 1981. But she was able to participate in a lot more work. Anne, by now pregnant, left the act to become a full time housewife and Mum. She had also decided she would run the now, ever expanding, Nolans Fan Club. October that year also saw the release of the album 'Making Waves'. Which had been recorded in Macnhester and London. The new album went top ten and spent almost a full year in the charts. They were able to announce that late in 1980 they would be going on tour with their first ever headline UK National Tour. They would be playing in large theatres instead of cabaret clubs or as a support act. As they rehearsed some of the newer numbers and had new costumes made. They also put together their own band for the tour - "Car Park"

'Who's Gonna Rock You' was released just prior to the tour. Giving the Nolans ample opportunity to plug the tour they were about to undertake. and the Nolans hit the road. Brothers Brian and Tommy Nolan ran the merchandising operation at all the venues that the tour played. Items as diverse as scarves and flashing visors were sold alongside the inevitable posters, badges and programmes. The success of "Making Waves" was instant. It was released the World over and was particularly successful in Japan, Australia and New Zealand. During 1980 the Sisters made trips to these territories and appeared on most of the top rated shows in each country. Another album was released that month. 'The Nolan Sisters Collection' was a compilation re release of the '20 Giant Hits' album. This time released on the budget label Pickwick. That album was so successful it was repackaged in two formats named 'The Best Of The Nolan Sisters Vol 1' and 'Vol 2'. It is interesting to note that several of these Pickwick Albums began to appear in the chart. They were quickly banned by the Chart Company as they were cut price albums and  had an unfair advantage over new release, full price records.

'Attention to Me' became the fourth single to be released off the album.  It was another top ten smash hit reaching the top ten in May 1981. All these singles received considerable airplay and television promotion. Seeing the ladies appear on "Top Of The Pops" "Pebble Mill At One" "Video Stars" "Tiswas" amongst others too numerous to list.

Following their success in Japan which had surprised everyone, most of all the Nolans, the ladies recorded a 30 minute live programme for Japanese TV.  Shown over the Christmas period, it featured the girls lip synching to their hits at famous London landmarks. Who would have imagined them singing "Who's Gonna Rock You" at Trafalgar Square or "I'm in the mood" opposite the Houses Of Parliament! They also recorded two 30 minute TV specials at the New London Theatre for transmission on BBC TV. The ironic part of that recording is that the theatre is directly below the London Room! Denise was in the audience and cheered the girls on. The group flew out once more to Japan to take part in the 1981 Tokyo Music Festival. They were triumphant with the Findon, Myres and Puzey composition 'Sexy Music' which was taken from the 'Making Waves' album and went on to become a smash hit for the Nolans in Japan. The cash prize and trophy were picked up by them and they became only the third non American act to win the festival. Jermaine Jackson and Randy Crawford had been already been defeated in the contest. The Nolans road show in Japan was unstoppable. First, a 30 minute UK special was recorded for ITV "Extraordinary Lives" saw Maureen, Linda, Bernie and Coleen' in a studio chatting about their career to date. Later  in 1981 a single 'Chemistry' was released, it was another top 20 smash in the UK and was seen as a taster for the next album; 'Portrait' due to be released in March 1982. The single 'Don't love Me Too Hard' was released early in 1982 at the same time as 'Portrait'. Both were big hits which saw the girls consolidate their position as the most successful girl group in the UK. That year the girls completed their second national headline tour, which was a tremendous success. In total the latest album featured four singles 'Chemistry', 'Don't Love Me Too Hard' 'Crashing Down' & 'How Do I Survive' the latter being released in Japan only. A notable fact about the album "Portrait" is that it was released in Japan as "Don't Love Me Too Hard".  More notable is the release was one of the first 50 albums ever to be released in CD format anywhere in the World. A considerable achievement. 'Crashing Down' failed to make the UK top 75 which was a severe blow to the Nolans. They then recorded two more 30 minute specials for BBC TV. At the close of the year a greatest hits album was released entitled 'Altogether' the album's title was also a play on words, for Anne had decided to come out of retirement, meaning the act and the hits were 'Altogether'. Anne had missed singing and her Sisters, and had decided to come back to the group. There had been plans to release a new album in the UK on the EPic label. The label wanted the girls to record the album in the United States with a sought after producer. The costs were creeping higher. Those costs were to fall on the Nolans shoulder and not Epic's. The stand off went on and on until the label and the Nolans management decided to shelve the idea, and part company. The release of 'Altogether' saw the four album contract fulfilled and each party could walk away. The girls were scheduled to release two more singles, but they were to be the last releases from Epic. After that, they would be without a record deal for some time.
There was an alotted time to rehearse for the tour, due to start in November 1982.  Anne, by now was a Mother having given birth to a beautiful daughter, Amy.  Anne made headlines of her own during the birth. she developed preaclampsia during the birth. The condition is dangerous as the Mother had exceptionally high blood pressure. In Anne's case it almost meant death. She was unconcious for most of the delivery. Fortunately, after a ceacareun section, Mother and baby were fine. The whole family reunited to star on Russel Harty's show where all the family  were able to showcase all  their talents. Amy even came on set in her specially made costume.

The whole family appeared in a Russe Harty  TV special devoted to them.

The tour commenced  in 1982 and Amy went on tour too. Looked after, as ever, by her devoted Grandmother, Maureen. To coincide with the tour and the album, Epic released the single. 'Dragonfly' This also failed to make the chart in the UK. Despite having a new writing team and new sound.  The final Epic single 'Dressed To Kill' entered the chart as the girls' highest ever chart entry (28).  Allegations of chart rigging were made by the industry watchdog "IMRB" who promptly removed the song from the charts. This was a crushing blow to the Nolans who were completely innocent. It seems that a limited edition free poster was offered to would be purchasers of the single. The limited edition was only available in selected stores. Those stores being chart return shops. A few hundred of which, dotted around the country made up the entire UK chart. They were supposed to be secret, but easily identified as they had the machine for tallyinig sales on the desk. The Music Research Bureaux used the sales of these shops to organise the full top 100 singles!!

Many acts had bemones this system as it often exclued their music. Usually chart return shops were in dedicated record shops. Stores such as Boots and WH Smith sold hundreds of thousands of albums and these songs never registerd as chart numbers. Artsists like Dana and Des O'Connor were selling in huge numbers and not entering the chart. More about that later on!  'Dressed To Kill' was to be the last Epic release by the Sisters.

1983 saw the Nolans enter the charts again however, with 'Don't Do That' which was a collaboration with heavy rock stars Lemmy from Motorhead and Cozy Powell. It was an unlikely combination but everyone had a great time recording. "It was a little disconcerting seeing Lemmy drinking neat vodka at 9am." Said Linda.  although he was treated the girls very well. 1983 also finally saw the end of the relationship between CBS and the Nolans. As well as the problem with "Where to record the album" - The record company had not been happy with some of the songs that the Nolans had presented to them. They had insisted that "Dressed to kill" be remixed and they did not seem to like some of the new writers the Nolans had been working with. They preferred, it seemed, to rely on a tried and tested formula without any changes. These issues were not going to go away so both companies parted.

In 1983 it was announced that the Nolans were to forgoe the international music scene and bring their music home to their British fans. It was claimed that by spending time in Japan they had taken their finger off the pulse and let slip the vital UK market. They had three singles that hadn't entered the main UK chart and something had to be done. After 50 concert dates in the UK they announced a further full UK concert tour. Problems arose within the act itself with minor squabbles turning into major ones. As things reached an impasse in November 1983 Linda decided to leave the act, leaving the group as a four piece once more. She had been part of the Nolans singing dynasty for since childhood and sang with her Sisters in the Nolans for nine years. It was a huge blow. She was not to sing professionally with the Nolans again until the 2009 reunion tour. Linda secured work at clubs up and down the UK and also appeared at Maggie May's Showbar at Blackpool's Central Pier for a record breaking eight years. The show then transferred to the resort's South Pier for two further years. A Nolans tour was arranged in 1984 with Anne Maureen Bernie and Coleen as the line up. The family spent Christmas together as usual that year. A new recording contract was secured November 1984. Towerbell Records released the party album 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun'. The album featured 33 hit songs in medley form. With one full song for each of the Sisters. Bernie stormed with 'Total Eclipse Of The Heart' Anne delivered a beautiful version of 'In Your Eyes' Whislt Maureen and coleen tackled 'Every Breath You Take' and 'Wherever I lay My Hat' respectively.  All the songs featured had all been hits for major recording artists. it was well produced and it received heavy press and TV promotion. With a speically filmed TV commercial showcasing some of the songs. COmedy ensued when they recorded the TV commercial they were told they would have boyfriends. When the Sisters replied that they did in fact have boyfriends, the producers told the ladies "They have to be in Equity" - the closed shop actor's union. They met their "boyfriends" on the morning of filming. Embarrasment was confounded when the actor boyfriends had to drop their trousers in front of the Sisters as they danced to their tracks!  'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' entered the charts and earned silver disc status within the first week of it's release. It later earned a gold disc. Earlier on, we mentioned that artists were missing a chart place becuase the chart was not made up of actual sales, but of sales in 'Chart Return Shops'. In the case of 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun'  It's debut week,  saw it it enter the chart in the lower reaches of the 50+ end of the chart - it had been awarded a silver disc for sales of more than 25,000 units. Above it in the chart, with a new entry at number two, was Ultravox - with no special disc status. Thus proving that, in fact, the Nolans should have been in the top five. No one is saying that Ultravox's release did not ultimately sell more copies BUT  on their debut weeks the Nolans had sold far more than Ultravox and were languishing in the lower end of the chart. This is simply because most people who were buying Nolans releases were chosing to buy their albums from shops that had no input with the charts. The same thing was happening to many artists - their plight was not to be recognised for many years - until digital downloads made a much clearer picture.  Going back to the 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' -  It's release enabled the act to go on tour once more with a product to promote. The Christmas time release  was also beneficial because of it's party theme. The Nolans had great fun making the Album, but in typical Nolan fashion they were instructed to record the whole album in a week. This had not been done since the 1978 '20 Giant Hits' record. It is testomony to their vocal talents that they can come up with the goods in such short time. A lone single on the Towerbell Label was also released. 'Goodbye Nothin' To Say' was released. The track was available on 72 and 12 formats. One of only two songs they released in duo format (The other being 'Dressed To Kill') Anne's version of "In your Eyes' was the B' side. Regrettably, this single also had no impact on the charts. With singles chart success eluding them the Nolans needed a reinvention. The group was still very popular on the touring circuit, however, enjoying great successes wherever they appeared. Denise had been enjoying success in her own right with Pantomimes, and soon after the Nolans took to Panto too. It was a chance for each girl to work on their own thus adding another string to  their respective bows.

1986 saw the girls without a record contract for the first time since 1974. A life line came by the way of a one off record deal. Sparton Records decided they were impressed with the Nolans vocals when they took part in the charity single 'You'll Never Walk Alone' which sailed to number one in the charts to help raise money for the victims of the Bradford Football Ground disaster in 1985. The label offered the girls a one album, one single deal.   It wasn't long before the ladies found themselves back in the studio recording a new album of standards that were all very dear to them. 'Tenderly' was, and is, considered by many, to be the greatest album the Nolans recorded. It featured songs from the 1950's and showcased to how diverse the act had become. Two of the tracks were even sung a cappella.  The Nolans do have regrets about the album though. They wanted a bigger a more orchestrated sound with higher production values. Budget limits meant that the Album was recorded with just a five piece band rather than an orchestra. They were denied a string section which can really make a song soar.  The choice of songs was down to them. They love all of the songs on the album, and vocally they can look back on it with pride.  However, 'Tenderly' was not a commercial success. Spartan records have since been accused of failing to promote the album, or the solitary single that was released in tandem, entitled 'Let's Spend The Night Together'. Once more, studio time was very limited. The girls had just one week for the vocals. The album's release coincided with another UK tour. The Sisters also helped promote another charity single in 1986 when they took part in the Ferry Aid project for the Zebrugge Disaster. The Sisters recorded vocals for 'Let It Be'. They confessed at the time that they felt nervous in the presence of such musical giants as Paul McCartney and Elton John, but they enjoyed the day. In 1987 Anne gave birth to her second daughter, Alexandra. While Coleen and Maureen announced that year that they were both expecting babies. The two siblings both had boys, Maureen gave birth to Danny to her partner Ritchie Hoyle and Coleen gave birth to Shane Jr . On the professional side of their lives, there would be no new recordings from them as an act until 1989. Several budget priced albums were released with the same tracks shuffled about and the covers repackaged. The group continued to tour successfully none stop and appeared in smash hit Summer Season Shows and Pantomimes.

The ladies went into the studio once more in 1989 and recorded 'I'm In The Mood For dancin 89' This was given the  Stock Aitken Waterman treatment with a throbbing disco beat and Bernie singing lead vocals. Coleen provided lead on the reverse track 'No Question' The song was selling well and looked set to enter the chart when the distribution company went bankrupt and supplies could not reach the shops. Once again, family spirits plummeted. The girls still enjoyed TV work most notably singing The Smiths song 'Panic' On Jonathan Ross' show. Linda who had topped the bill in Blackpool from 1985 with her Maggie May show on the town's Central Pier was temporarily immortalised in wax at Blackpool's Taussaud's museum. The mid and late 1980's saw the act touring extensively. The UK government even secured an exchange with the Soviet Union's Bolshoi Ballet. The ballet company came to the UK - The Nolans went to Russia! Altogether 40 Arena Venue dates were completed and although the girls fell ill to food poisoning they enjoyed the experience. They played at huge venues in Soviet states that are now known as Estonia, Russia, Latvia, Azerbaijan, Goergia, Belarus, Lithuania and Ukraine.  The tour of Russia featured their own band and a small delegation. Authorities accompanied them throughout the tour, ensuring that they did not stray from the itinery. On one occasion one of the crew celebrated their birthday. The girls agreed to have a party in their hotel room. Aware of strict rules the party was a low key, low volume affair with just drinks and snacks. Just beofre midnight a Soviet KGB Guide came into the room and instructed the bemused party people that the party was over. Bernie, ever the party animal, protested and said that the volume would be kept down, but they would, in fact, be carrying on. The guide left and the Nolans - triumphantly - carried on with their party. Five minutes later the guide reappeared, this time accompanied by armed soldiers. Needless to say, the party ended immediately and the attendees lest in haste. Including party loving Bernie who was suddenly 'tired and fancying an early night'. The food poisoning incident meant further problems whilst the girls and their crew travelled across the Soviet Union. Their primitive coach did not have on board toilet facilities and toilet stops were made in remote areas. Sometimes this could even involve knocking on a local resident's door and asking to use their bathroom. Something Anne recalls as being "Filthier than anything I have ever seen." Fresh, clean, drinking water was a major problem, resulting in the Sisters being ill for most of the tour. They lost weight and had to see doctors when they returned home. Brian Nolan accompanied them on the tour, acting as the tour manager. He was also their special guest singing two songs in the concert. The concert was a show stopper. Soviet audiences were treated to excerpts from the 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Album' - some of their own hits and the all conquering 'Total Eclipse Of The Heart'. Their final song 'Somewhere' Left the crowds cheering for more in every venue. A highlight for Anne was meeting then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Who, Anne says, "Was lovely to us."

Summer season work and Pantomimes were bread and butter to the Sisters and seasons were undertaken in towns such as Blackpool, Skegness, Great Yarmouth and Bournemouth. Although the act had no records to promote, they proved to be a box office draw and work was plentiful.
In early 1990 they were approached by Universal Panasonic in Japan with a view to releasing several albums for the vast Japanese market. Several of these albums were released. "Playback Part 2' 'Rock & Rolling Idol, 'Tidal Wave' 'It's True What They Say 'Lost Lonely Beaches' 'Colorful' 'The Hottest Place On Earth' 'Please Don't' 'Valentine Pops In Japan' 'Celebration Royal Wedding' and ' Christmas Pops In Japan' As well as repackaged CD's of '20 Giant Hits' and 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun'. The Japanese CD's were recorded in the UK. The concept was that songs that had been major hits in Japan by Japanese artists would be translated into English and recorded by the Nolans. The tracks were often laid down in Japan before the Nolans did the vocals in the UK. Some later ones were recorded in Japan. Most of the songs would not sit well with a UK audience, even with an English translation, but the Japanese loved them. One album recieved a Japanese Grammy for 'Best concept album by a foreign recording artist' That was particularly sweet for them as other nominees had been MC Hammer and Bryan Adams who were huge stars at the time. The albums were a succes resulting in them having to have a full tour of Japan, where they played to packed houses once more. Several items of merchandise were produced for sale including bags, t shirts, posters and "Refreshing Nolans Wet Wipes". The act went to Japan every year for the next four years. Such was the resurgance of their brand. At the same time Pickwick records began releasing CDs of songs that they had still owned the rights for,  and so a further UK release of "20 Giant Hits" was secured. There was still no Royalties payable to the artists.

Coleen gave birth to her second son Jake in 1990. She continued to work for most of the time. In addition to the new Japanese releases several "Greatest Hits" were released featuring newly recorded versions of their hits. The Universal Panasonic  arrangement that The Nolans had secured would see them record and release an album for the UK market as a wholly new product.  Mike Myers, and Ray Hedges had produced many of the Japanese albums and Clive Scott had translated all the lyrics into suitable English text for the Japanes albums. For the planned UK album The Nolans wanted Mike Myres and Ray Hedges back, and so they were asked write and to produce the tracks. The album was destined to have new songs and some covers. They went into the studio and recorded many tracks. The idea was then to select which ones would go on the album. Sadly, the album was never released which was a great upset to them. The album featured songs such as "Run To You" recorded originally by Bryan Adams. They also recorded their versions of 'Say It Ain't So Joe' "That's What Friends Are For' and thier show stopping a cappella version of  'Unchained Melody'. New songs recorded included a Hazell Dean song 'Out Of Control' and a mid tempo song 'Take Away The Heartache' which was featured on BBC's 'Pebble Mill At One' Other highlights of the album were dance numbers 'What's Your Intention?'  and a bass song 'Could This Be'. the record company were, at the time considering releasing some of the tracks under a psudonym. One track 'Somebody Loves You' was played anonymously in London clubs and had been well recieved. The record company executives had mistakenly thought that the Nolan name was somehow toxic in chart terms. This was nonsense. The act had sold over 25 million records Worldwide and the label's cold feet was counter productive. Instead of releasing new material, they instead took the Nolans into the studio to re record 'I'm In the Mood For Dancing' - Altogether four versions were recorded. The white label was sent to clubs, whose feedback would determine which version would be released as the first single. The triumphant version was the one that had a similar sound to a recent chart smash 'Saturday Night' by Danish singer Whigfield. Comparisions were made with both the instantly recognisable quack! Coleen had decided to leave the act in 1993 and hadn't starred in their 1994 Summer Season production at Blackpool's Grand Theatre. That show featured an all star line up with The Grumbleweeds, Duncan Norvell and Dooby Duck completing the line up with a now trimmed to a trio Nolans. She did come out of her retirement in 1995 to promote the song and the expected album release. Several TV shows saw the Nolans once again singing their signature tune. Even with a new sound the song was all too familiar. Ultimately the song did make the charts where it stayed for just two weeks, reaching only number 51. It could be argued that a new track might well have fared better. Espcially as the new material was of such a high standard and was very current. Although the album was never given a general release, most of the recordings were to surface as tracks on cut price CD's carrying the misnomer 'Best Of' and 'Disco Party Classics'

Meanwhile Linda had enjoyed success with tours such as "Prisoner Cell Block H" and "Back To Baccarach". After promoting the single, Coleen went back into retirement. The Nolans were now singing as a trio full time. Coleen had decided that she wanted to be out of showbusiness altogether and live life as a housewife. The New trio consisting of Bernie, Anne and Maureen had completed the Summer Season in Blackpool at the Grand Theatre in 1994. They had performed the 26 week season to rave reviews and the show went out twice nightly, breaking all box office records.  The Queen visited the Grand Theatre as part of the venue's 100 year centenary celebrations. She watched their show from the Royal Box, which remains a highlight for them. That season was noteworthy in that there has not since been a productionin the theatre that has run from May to November.
In late 1994 Bernie announced that she too was to leave the act. She claimed at the time that she was sick of production numbers and wanted to try something a "bit rockier" she was even considering appearing as a backing vocalist for such a show. She was also very depressed at the standard of some of the venues they were forced to star in. Venues like Bingo Halls, or Holiday Camps. Often the sound systems were less than adequate and in Bernie's opinion the backing tracks that they were now having to use were no subsitute for live music. She hated that people might not be actually watching the show. That they would talk or ignore them was painful for her in particular. Her departure was a shock to the group, but her mind was up. She said at the time that she was scared of going on her own and that she might be back in a year begging for the group to take her back. She was willing though, along with Coleen, to promote the single In 1995.

Bernie was quickly snapped up and early in 1995 she was able to announce that she had landed her first starring role in a major National UK touring production of 'Billy'. She was scheduled to appear alongside Jason Donovan. Although initial publicity pictures were released, the show was suddenly cancelled without warning before it was even rehearsed. Bernie was crushed. She immediately found work in low profile roles and semi professional shows which she saw as a way to improve her acting skills.  She continued in this way ntil she was chosen to star in the World premiere of "Oh what A Night" alongside US singing star Kid Creole. The show was a huge success and went on to tour Worldwide (minus Bernie) for several years. The venue is the largest theatre in the UK with over 3000 seats. At the same time she was starring in "Oh What A Night" she had to dash across the town to appear in her own late night cabaret show six nights a week in the Stakis Hotel. This show saw three different full scale production shows that went on until 2am. Anne and Maureen vowed to continue as a duo. They had a string of bookings and were confident of success. Initially they recruited two female dancers who could recreate a line up that would at least look like a piece.

In 1997 Bernie successfully auditioned for the lead role of Mrs. Johnstone in Willy Russell's 'Blood Brothers' a role that would later become synonymous with the Sisters. Bernie toured the UK with the show and was due to move into the role in London's West End at the Phoenix Theatre. The show hit Liverpool mid tour and she was spotted by casting staff who worked on Channel Four's flag ship soap 'Brookside'. They later told producers that they should see Bernie. They went to see her in the show and quickly invited her to a screen test.

After auditioning for the show Bernie was offered and accepted a part in the long running soap. She had loved the role in Blood Brothers but this was too good an opportunity to miss. However, she was tied to a contract. Bill Kenwright, the show's producer graciously allowed her to leave without penalty.  Linda had recently also landed the same role and was starring in the West End.  It was planned that at the end of the tour, Bernie would go into the West End and Linda would join the tour. With Bernie's sudden departure Linda was recalled from the West End and put on the tour. Bernie stayed for just enough time for a new actor to take Linda's place. Bill Kenwright asked Bernie if anyone in her family might be up for the job. Bernie's first thought was Denise! Word was out and Denise sent a CD to Kenwright. On the strength of that and a brief audition he offered Denise the part in the West End! Her entry as the third Sister would later be part of a World record breaking dynasty when in 2006 Maureen took on the role. More of that later. Denise stayed in the West End for eight months before swapping with Linda who was on the National tour with the part. With Linda in the West End and Denise touring the show's continuity with Nolans was secured.

Denise stayed with the touring production for four years. When she left at the end of her contract, Linda rejoined the tour and LynPaul went back to the West End.

In  during the Nolans' Summer season show at Blackpool's Grand Theatre

1998 and 1999 saw the Nolans tour the UK and Japan, Initially they had been using the girl dancers, but they were dropped when Anne and Maureen decided that their act was still acceptable as 'The Nolans' performing as a duo. It wasn't long before Anne's eldest daughter began to crave a show business career. Along with her friend Julia Duckworth she decided to join the group in 1999. Once again, the Nolans were a four piece. They toured the country and were thrilled when they found that they had landed a lengthy Summer Season contract at the Grand Theatre in Blackpool working with Billy Pearce. It was in the Spring of 2000 Anne noticed lumps in her breasts. Her fears were realised when tests were carried out and breast cancer was diagnosed. Anne had fourteen lumps removed and had to undergo extensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Anne amazed everyone by working the entire time, missing only a few shows, usually on the days that chemotherapy was carried out. The show business adage - The show must go on - was tested to it's fullest and Coleen came out of retirement to take Anne's place on the days when ill health prevented her from performing. She even did the show without pay so Anne wouldn't miss out on her salary. After two years in 'Brookside' Bernie took a part in ITV 1's 'The Bill' where she stayed for a further 3 years. She had intended to take part in the 2002 Eurovision Song Contest after the judges had heard her rendition of the demo track. 'Come Back' Her bosses at 'Brookside' refused to give her time off to take part in rehearsals in Estonia and this pre empted her decision to look for other work. The actual singer on the night Jessica Garlick came a very respectable third with the song.

As a duo and then a four piece with Anne, Maureen, Amy and Julia, The Nolans toured the UK and overseas, including The Netherlands and Dubai where they enjoyed TV work and live dates.  The girls continued in this vein for 5 years.  In late 2001 Anne and Maureen were asked to take part in the 'Reelin and a rockin' tour. It meant that the girls would be providing backing vocals for a variety of 1960's stars such as Gerry Marsden from the Pacemakers, Dave Berry, Brian Poole and many others, the Nolans stayed with the show for 3 years even taking it to Australia twice and on board the QE2. The show was even given a Summer Season as well as constantly touring  to packed houses. the two Sisters enjoyed a special guest slot where they sang a Dusty Springfield medley, in keeping with the theme of the show. Each Nolan with the exception of Coleen also starred in Pantomimes up and down the country. Coleen had only appeared in one panto and vowed that they were not for her and that she would not be appearing in one again. Something she stuck to until 2012.
Maureen joined the National tour of 'Mum's The Word', her first job that didn't involve singing. Although she was very apprehensive about the role she embraced it and was rewarded with critical acclaim. Maureen enjoyed the experience immensely and found it had given her new confidence. The show was a major success. Some time later, proving that the Nolans seem to do so much together; her sister Bernie in 2007, took on the lead role in the same touring production with a whole new cast! While Maureen was away working on the show should any "Reelin' and a Rockin' shows arise, Coleen or Amy were on hand to help out. Almost proving Radio two's Terry Wogan right when he said there was a factory somewhere manufacturing Nolans.  
Pantomimes continued to be a valued source of income for the girls with most of them starring during the festive period. Anne took on her first gig as a solo singer in 2005 in a major variety show. Sadly the impresario of the show was inexperienced and after only three shows an unpaid cast including Anne Nolan and Bobby Davro were left without a show. Meanwhile Maureen had successfully auditioned for the Mrs. Johnstone role at the Phoenix. Becomming the fourth Sister in the role. This earned the Sisters a place in the Guinness Book Of World Records - as the most Siblings playing the same role in a professional productioon of the same show at different times.
Bernie was occupied with her TV role in ITV's "The Bill" but found time to star in the hit TV show 'Stars in their eyes' as Anastasia singing "Not that kind of girl" At the time Linda was busy with 'Blood Brothers' Denise was touring the UK with 'Blood Brothers' before leaving the show to tour in "The Magic Of Judy Garland" a show she had toured the UK with many times previously, Whilst Denise continued to tour the country with Blood Brothers she was nominated for an award for her portrayal of Mrs. Johnstone such was her stature in the role. When Denise left 'Blood Brothers' in 2004 and Linda was pulled from the West End to take over the touring role once more.

In 2005 Bernie recorded her first solo album 'All By Myself' which was met with critical acclaim, The album failed to make the top 100 chart, but she did have a minor chart hit with her first solo single effort 'Macushla' which reached number 39 in the UK chart. Later that year she took part in ITV's 'The Games' raising money for charity. Bernie was the eldest female on the show so it was no surprise that she came last! While Linda continued to star in 'Blood Brothers'. In 2005, a devastated Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer. Following a mastectomy Linda shocked the country by returning to the show after only 14 weeks absence. After releasing her debut album Bernie worked in Blackpool at the UK's largest theatre the 'Opera House' for the Summer with the hit show 'Soap Queens' Bernie shared top billing with Debra Stephenson from TV's 'Coronation Street. There was little sparkle between the two. Later in 2005  CBS Records released the album "The Singles Collection" and a 25th Anniversary box set that featured all their CBS albums and tracks never released on CD before. That too was a massive hit. A remake of one of the Japanese only albums (Playback Part 2) now called 'The Nolans sing Momoe 2005' went to number 1 in the download charts, firmly cementing their stronghold on the land of the rising sun.
2006 saw Bernie in Panto as the wicked queen in "Sleeping Beauty"  She starred with Johnny Briggs (Coronation Street's Mike Baldwin) and Tina O'Brien (Coronation Street's Sarah Platt) as the Wicked Queen at Manchester Opera House in Cinderella. Shortly after she joined forces once more with Debra Stephenson in her highly rated show "Soap Queens" for a short tour.  For the Blackpool shows she appeared with Richard Shelton from ITV's Emmerdale in "Soap Queen & Kings" on the town's North Pier. Bernie was devastated after the show was cancelled after just a few weeks because of poor ticket sales.
Maureen left Blood Brothers in 2007 to tour in a production called "Stardust" with male vocalist Mike Holoway. She joined him in Panto at Durham that year where she starred as Fairy Crystal in "Sleeping Beauty". Summer that year saw her  touring with the UK National Tour of "Girls Behind" Where she played Sadie - Billed as - Tough with a soft centre. Co - stars included Sue Devaney and Donna Hazelton. Coleen had found a niche in TV presenting and has worked on ITV's 'This Morning' she took over the role from professional journalists Richard Madeley and Judy Finnegan. It was a shock to find that her performance, as well as that of co host Twiggy Lawson was universally panned. After less than six months Lawson was dismissed. Coleen continued for a short time, by now joined by seasoned pro John Leslie. Ratings began to improve. However ITV coaxed Fern Brittan out of her maternity leave early to join Leslie. With Brittan firmly in place ITV felt able to offer Coleen "Special Features" which was a polite way of saying that she was too was fired. With only a few "Special features" under her belt Coleen left the show. With her marriage over Coleen returned to Blackpool where work remained elusive for quite some time. Coleen joined Loose Women where she stayed for ten years. She had originally been a panelist on the show's predessor, "Live talk". Since then Coleen has been the darling of the tabloids and has appeared on several high profile shows. Most notably 'Dancing on Ice' despite her poor standard of ice dancing Coleen endeared herself to the audience and went as far as the quarter final. The show saw her injure herself several times, but she carried on despite the pain. She fronted her own Sky TV show "The Truth About Beauty" and has appeared on almost every chat show of the last decade.
2008 saw the release of Anne Nolan's autobiography.  She had worked for five years on the book which she explained was "The truth". In May the previous year she had signed the contracts. The book's release saw much publicity and Anne was featured on radio and television for almost a month solid. She undertook a one off concert in Spain that November. The book made it to the top five in the Times national book charts. A paperback release followed in early 2009. Maureen continued her successful run of work throughout 2008 with appearances in Mum's the Word and a six month run with the national tour of "Footloose". In January 2009 she rejoined Blood Brothers for the UK national tour.
A private argument had seen several of the Sisters estranged for some time. Anne had a minor argument with Coleen's husband. This saw Coleen take the side of her partner. Denise then joined the arguement in defence of her Sister. Eventually Anne and Coleen were reconciled. But when Coleen announced her wedding plans and they didn't include Denise, the argument flared up again leaving relations in a desperate state.
It was announced during Autumn 2009 that a reunion tour was to take place - minus Anne and Denise. To say Anne was devastated when it was revealed that the line up would not include her was an understatement. She gave her side of the story to the press. The Nolans - this time would consist of Bernie, Maureen, Coleen and Linda - None of whom with the exception of Maureen had sung under the Nolans banner for several years with Linda being out of the line up for 26 years. The group went on the publicity trail, promoting the tour devised by Universal Records and Live Nation. They claimed that the tour organisers and record company only wanted the four Nolans who has the most success, and that the tour was to mark the 30th anniversary of "I'm In The Mood For Dancing". Anne poured scorn on this claim by pointing out Coleen hadn't recorded the song or promoted it at the time because she wasn't old enough. She also stated that of all their hits in their entire career she was only absent on 4 of them and one album. Denise too released a statement and defiantly stuck up for Anne. The tour went ahead leaving fans divided. Many were overjoyed at the concert, whilst several long standing fans stayed away in protest. The tour was a huge success however. Concerts were sold out and a DVD of the Manchester show made the top 5 in the live DVD list. An album, "In the mood again" was released, with covers of diva anthems featured in the live show and remakes of Nolans' hits . It was a minor chart success reaching number 22 in the album charts.

Bernie followed the Nolans tour by appearing in the second series of "Popstar to Opera Star" she was runner up in the show which saw Darius Danesh crowned as winner. In fact Bernie had lead the field for the whole series until the final show where less than 1% of the vote split the two. During filming Bernie had noticed a lump in her breast. Her fears were realised when she became the third Sister to be diagnosed with breast cancer. She went public with the news and even appeared with a bald head on many TV shows after the chemothrapy took away her hair. She had shaved her hair when it began to fall out in patches. Linda had withdrawn from most work following the death of her husband. The tour had been the first major work she had undertaken since her husband had died of liver failure in 2008.
Coleen's son Jake rtook a short part in ITV's 'Emmerdale' he and his older Brother Shane also have recorded songs and worked together as a pop/rock group. Anne's youngest daughter and her partner Steve have a Son - Vinny who constantly amazes everyone with his personality. They married in 2012.  Maureen became a Grandmother for the second time when Sienna was born in 2010. She already was a Grandmother to Ava. Danny clearly loves Fatherhood. Maureen was married in late 2010 to her long term partner Richie. The two tied the knot in a luxury hotel in Spain. The wedding was covered by OK magazine who made a feature of the event. As a new decade began Anne and Denise made a fresh attempt at building bridges. They decided that they would write to all four of their estranged Sisters and offer to be civil to each other. Maureen and Bernie immediately replied allowing for a fragile reconcilliation to take place. Bernie's cancer trauma seemed to be at a close at the end of 2010 when, following her mastectomy and subsequent reconstruction she was able to attend her eldest Sister Anne's 60th birthday party in November. She declared to the press at the end of the year that she had beaten the disease. She also announced she was to star in the UK National tour of the hit comedy play 'Calendar Girls'.  Maureen toured the UK in the stage play 'Naked Truth' throughout much of 2010 before returning to the West End for a three months stint, in 'Blood Brothers'.  Linda undertook Panto at Worthing, whilst Denise headed to Bridlington where she topped the bill in 'Snow White'. The show broke records and consolidated her position as one of the UK's most sought after Panto baddies. Denise returned to the town in May 2011 for a one off concert of her 'Magic Of Judy Garland' show. Coleen released two novels in 2010 and a new book written by Bernie, Maureen, Linda and Coleen entitled 'Survivors'  was released in April 2011.
Maureen toured throughout 2010 /111 in shows as diverse as the 'Eva Cassidy Story' - 'Footloose' and 'Girls Behind' She joined Sister Linda in a production of 'Jack & The Beanstalk'  at the Shaw Theatre in London. The show's producer disappeared days before rehearsals were due to start, leaving the cast bemused. Salvation came when the theatre itself took over production, after the Panto Maureen was once again approached by Bill Kenwright and returned to 'Blood Brothers', this time she took second billing to superstar Marti Pellow who Maureen noted was "gorgeous to look at and fabulous to work with" She left the show in Summer 2012 and appeared in Panto in Redditch. Coleen surprised many by entering the 'Celebrity Big Brother' House that year.  Coleen has been a fan of the intensely invasive show for many years.
Anne had impressed a lot of people with her candid style and was invited to record an album throughout the early part of 2012. She had a hands on appraoch to the album, that involved her even arranging a medley of her own. She was invited by "Save The Children" to support their Bangladesh Clinics For Babies campaign that year. Anne released a single "When I Need You"  and offered half of the royalties to the good cause. Her album is selling well and she is going to tour late 2012 to promote it. Denise has been a familiar face on the Jazz scene for years and is now enjoying working at the Sands Venue Blackpool as a regular. Throughout 2011/12 she was involved with several shows at the venue. Where she worked with such Soap stars Shobna Gulaty (Sunita: Coronation Street) Andrew Lancel (Frank Foster: Coronation Street, Neil Manson: The Bill) Richard Shelton (Dr. Adam Forsythe: Emmerdale) Natalie Anderson (Alicia Gallagher: Emmerdale) Graham Hawley (John Stape in Coronation Street) Liam O'Brien (Ethan Blake - Emmerdale)  as well as many others from the Soap World - Denise met another accomplishment in 2011 when she topped the bill on a charity variety show - starring allongside Gareth Gates and Rose Marie. That night she doubled up by going straight to the Sands where she received a standing ovation from a full house with more than a hundred soap stars present. 2012 saw her in Broxbourne with X Factor finalist John Wilding and BBC's prankster Ross Lee, Bernie took much of 2011 off to recharge her batteries. She had worked through her cancer treatment and fulfilled commitments by completing panto in Dunstable and touring with "Calendar Girls" now, however, she needed a rest. She had a belated 50th Birthday party and took plenty of time off to recuperate before joining the National Tour of "Chicago" with Ali Bastian, Stefan Booth and Tupule Dorgu. Fans were to be in with a chance to see the girls in their farewell tour, scheduled for February and March of 2013. However Bernie announced to a stunned World that her cancer had returned and that it was now uncurable. She insisted that it was treatable and was taking medication to ensure that it was kept at bay. She  starred in Panto in Eastbourne that year, but had to pull out when she found that her precious voice had been stolen by the cruel diesease., Bernie released her autobiography that Spring and it topped the sales and download charts selling more than 20,000 copies. She was too ill to write the last Chapter and so her Husband, Steve Doneathy, completed it for her.   Bernie had, in between, taken a trip to Blackpool and was taken ill. She was admitted to the Town's hospice and everyone belived Bernie would not make it through the next few hours. In typical Bernie style though, just two weeks later, she returned to her home in Weybridge to spend her final days at home with her family. She was horrified to find that whilst away, thieves had broken in to her home and stolen jewellery and had damaged treasured belongings. In her last few months Bernie made sure she spent time with all her family and even managed to get out of the house almost every day for fresh air or a light meal. Sadly Bernie lost her battle against cancer on July 4th 2013. She was with all her Sisters and Brothers. Bernie was brought home to Blackpool and her funeral was attended by 500 mourners who attended a specially arranged service at the town's Grand Theatre. Bernie arranged the entire day herself. She chose music, wrote a letter to be read to the assembled friends and family and even had live performances screened in the theatre. The Grand arranged for speakers to relay the service outside to the several thousand members of the public who lined to streets to say their final farewell to the local girl who conquered the World. In a poignent turn of events all remaining Sisters had finally settled their differences. It may well be a delicate road for full reconcilliation but still all the family are working towards this.
As 2013 progressed, the family had to deal with their loss and grieve. However. Maureen  rejoined 'Blood Brothers' for the Autumn National Tour and  starred in Panto in Carlisle. Anne continues to record and has been working with the original writer of "I'm In The Mood For Dancing" Robert Puzey. Denise still enjoys her selective work and Coleen is a regular contributor to the Daily Mirror and is their resident Agony Aunt.  2014 started the year with a bang for Linda. She agreed to take part in Channel 5's "Celebrity Big Brother" the daunting challenge saw her share a house with other celebrities in total isolation from the outside World for up to three weeks. As one by one the celebrities are evicted by public vote. Coleen returned to the panel of 'Loose Women' and Maureen completed a successful panto at Carlisle before heading on the road for 2014 with 'Blood Brothers' UK National Tour. Anne then filmed a documentary for Irish television charting her extraordinary life. Denise went on to star in 2014 in 'The Good Old Days' a variety show in the south of England, where she topped the bill and was received with great acclaim. There was talk in late 2014 of a Nolans tour which would feature Bernie on giant video screens. Something that has not been ruled out.

In late 2014 Maureen announced that she would head to Ipswich for her Pantomime that year whilst Denise went to Lowestoft. Linda returned to Panto as a solo  star at St. Helens. It was a welcome break for Linda who had thrown herself into charity work with gusto. She recently completed a 13 mile midnight walk for breast care charities. Linda has been involved with many charities recently and has been made a patron of many. As have Denise and Anne.  Maureen once more returned ro  'Blood Brothers' in 2015. Whilst Anne agreed to take part in two movies. There are more talks underway for a musical project involving Denise. Later that year Anne and Linda joined John Barrowman on a Celebrity version of the TV Quiz 'Pressure Pad' . In March 2015 Coleen celebrated her 50th Birthday with a party at the Radisson Hotel at Manchester Airport. She was joined by her family and friends. Denise was offered one musical and one play. Both of which she rejected. Later in the year Denise decided not to take part in Panto, preferring to spend the time with friends and family. Maureen joined the UK National tour of 'Footloose' in late 2015 alongside Gareth Gates. She had decided to take a break from Blood Brothers. In the Autumn of 2015 Linda joined the X Factor's Mary Byrne, Eurovision winner Niabh Kavannagh and Sue Collins from the Nualas for an Ireland wide tour. The production was a smash hit selling out in every venue it played. Anne went back into the studio to record a Christmas single which was heavily played on radio and Anne enjoyed the promotional work that accompanied it. She plans to release a single in 2016. It will be a duo with an, as yet, unnamed artist. Linda is to go out on the road again, this time in the UK where she will star, once again, in 'Menopause the Musical' on a full UK national tour.

At the Denise Nolan website we have always tried to keep the site updated and correct. In the Daily Mail this week (Jan 18th 2014) Denise was reported to have written on her site a piece detailing events in 1995. Denise never wrote the biography section on this site about the Nolans. She wrote her own autobiography on this site under the banner Denise. The Nolans biography was written by the site's webmaster. It is there as a general reference portal for the Nolans career. It highlights the girls achievements and documents the many highs and lows of their public life. The information is freely available anywhere on the web. There are no exclusives and  It does not give opinions. The site is updated regularly and pieces are added and taken away if they are seen to not look right at various times. Denise Nolan has never given her input on this section of the site. We deplored the action of Jim Davisdon on Celebrity Big Brother.  It appears that the newspaper and some websites highlighted an older Biography and selected a few lines without revealing the broader context of the full biography. The full biography supports each and every one of the Nolan Sisters at every single stage of their career. It would never seek to put Linda in a bad light nor indeed ANY of the Nolan Sisters. The details on the page are their as a matter of fact not as a news item or a headline. It seems that the piece in the press was intended to imply that Denise had decided to put pen to paper in light of Celebrity Big Brother. Denise has never herself, spoken about the incident. It happened almost 20 years ago and would only be on her website as part of a whole story of the Nolans and NOT the Daily Mail used a couple of lines written totally out of context. The press write what they want. This is why Denise refuses to talk to them. Her website is the only source she uses. It was sad that the newspaper did what they did. We have no control over that. Needless to say. If you want an accurate picture visit here and not newspapers.