Prince George Duke of Kent Court resident reunites with twin sister and former showbiz partner

Peggy Bensaid, a resident at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, in Chislehurst, has been reunited with her twin sister, Mollie, for the first time since moving to the care home. Mollie came to stay at the Home for respite care last month and to spend time with her sister.

The Bensaid twins, aged 98, were entertainers in the show business for 70 years, dancing, performing acrobatics and working with renowned celebrities, such as Laurel and Hardy, Shirley Bassey and Tommy Cooper.

Their outstanding career started as teenagers, when they joined a youth dance troupe. Later, Peggy and Mollie went on to be recognised as Britain’s leading twin act, and their performances were a hit in many theatres and summer camps across the UK.

During the Second World War, they toured the country and, as morale-boosting entertainers, worked for the troops and the American Red Cross on many occasions. After the war, the twins were the only girl clowns in Britain, and that unique status allowed them to perform and travel all around the world.

Peggy and Mollie had an eventful career and neither sister married. Once they retired, the twins wrote a book, All The World’s A Stage, where they recall joyful anecdotes and also reflect on their long-lasting and successful career. Peggy came to live at Prince George Duke of Kent Court in October 2020, where she enjoys music therapy sessions. She says:

“It is really nice here; I’m feeling safe and well!”

As the sisters have always been inseparable, their time together during the Christmas period has been significant to both of them.

Valerie Allen, Activities Co-ordinator for Prince George Duke of Kent Court, says:

“Peggy and Mollie have a wonderful bond. It was so lovely to see them back together, and we hope they can be reunited soon again. Peggy and Mollie are both full of personality and really make the staff laugh.”