I don't walk the red carpet with my sisters often - Blackpool's The Nolans receive Pride of Ireland award
By Steve Cain
Iconic girl-group The Nolans attended a glittering red-carpet ceremony on Saturday to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The singing sisters have called Blackpool home since 1962, when their entire family moved to the town from Raheny, Dublin.
The Pride of Éireann Awards, which were held at the Deansgate Hotel, in Manchester, celebrates outstanding contributions to the Irish community across the United Kingdom.
“We were thrilled when we were told we were getting this award,” said Maureen, 72. “To be recognised for all your hard work and six decades in show-business is such an honour.”
The event provided a rare opportunity for Maureen, Anne and Denise to get together with their younger sister, Coleen, who divides her time between her career in London and family life on her Staffordshire smallholding.
“I don’t get to do the whole red-carpet thing with my sisters very often,” admitted Coleen, 61. “So, to have the chance to do that, and receive the award, was lovely, but also very humbling.”
The sisters acknowledge that whilst they take pride in all awards and accolades that are bestowed upon them, this one is particularly special.
“To receive recognition for something we thoroughly enjoy doing makes us proud,” said Denise, 74. “But that pride is tripled when the honour comes from the country of our birth.”
Although joyful, occasions such as this are also poignant for the sisters. Two of their siblings, Bernie and Linda, passed away in 2013 and 2025, respectively.
“This award means so much to us, especially to remember the legacies of Linda and Bernie,” explained Anne, 75.
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“Erin, Bernie’s daughter, accepted the award on behalf of her mum,” revealed Coleen. “And, she wore one of Bernie’s dresses and had Bernie’s watch on. Although it was emotional for her, she said it was also a joy because her mum still lives on through that.”
The sisters also accepted Linda’s award.
“We brought it home to place alongside the many other awards she received throughout her life,” said Anne. Both Linda and Bernie would have been absolutely thrilled to know that Ireland is celebrating what we achieved together as a family.”