My teen idol was… Probably Prince. He was remarkable and contributed greatly to racial inclusion. He inspired me to become a professional singer. Many years later I actually got to work with him and it was mind-blowing, proving that dreams really can come true! If I could go back in time I’d tell my 16-year-old self… “It’s great to be you.” At 16 I felt the glasses I wore did nothing for me. I felt anxious about how I appeared in relation to others my age. They’re not good for me but I really love eating… Sweets – put a bag anywhere near me and I’ll devour them in minutes! My favourite way to spend a weekend would be… Going back to Wolverhampton to see my family as they always keep me grounded. I also love spending time with my fiancé James and his family. James works as a gaffer, which means he looks after the lighting on television and in television ads and events. We can both get incredibly busy at times but I love those
Soul and R&B singer Beverley, 38, not only has a glittering career but was also awarded an MBE for services to music and charity. She lives in North London with her fiancé James, 35
moments when we can just relax together. My favourite place in the whole world has got to be… Besides Wolverhampton, it would have to be Salvador in Brazil, for the dramatic scenery and lovely people. I’m determined to go back soon. The biggest risk I have taken in my life was… Leaving home to go to London in the hope of building a career. But with the love and support of my family, and a lot of hard work, I succeeded. The most treasured possession I have is… My voice – it has given me the opportunity to fulfil my dreams and hopefully help others along the way. My proudest moment was… I lost my much-loved dad last year but will always remember how proud he was when I was presented with my MBE. It is one of my most precious memories. If I wasn’t a singer I’d… Become a lecturer in Theology or something along those lines. It fits in with my beliefs and faith, and it’s
something I think I’d really enjoy. I’d have to get the degree first though! The best thing about being famous is… I love being able to share invitations to concerts with friends and family. And the worst thing… You have to be very careful what you say and do, but I love what I do and it’s given me the chance to meet so many people and do so many things. The best Christmas present I’ve ever had was… A photo of the family all together. My most treasured Christmas memory is… Waking up on Christmas morning in 1977, aged four, to see snow all over the place. My dad had opened the door and it was so thick and deep it started to fall in, so he got a shovel and dug us all out – it was magical! I’ll be spending Christmas… With my fiancé and his family and then with mine on Boxing Day. We’ll be having the big dinner – and everything else that goes with it.
As told to Grahame Anderson Photograph Camera Press