Born in Morcambe, Lancs, as the daughter of theatrical parents, Thora Hird first appeared on the stage at the age of eight weeks in the arms of her mother. In 1931 she joined Morcambe Rep. was discovered by Ealing Studios and put under contract. Later she became contracted to the Rank Organization. With many films under her belt she moved to television with the comedy series Meet the Wife and The First Lady. She has become even more popular in recent years with 11 years of presenting Praise Be, regular appearances on Last of the Summer Wine and many plays with Alan Bennett.