AN entertainer who was as well known for her home-made bread pudding as her singing has died, aged 85.

Soprano singer Eileen Blenko, from Holland-on-Sea, formed the Lindens Concert Party with neighbour Edna Collitt.

They performed old-time songs for groups and clubs around the area.

“Mum loved singing and she loved entertaining,” said Eileen’s daughter Julie.

“Edna did as well. Neither of them worked, so they decided to set up their own group.

“They used to make really glamorous long dresses and would change their outfits several times during a concert.”

Eileen was in her 60s when she started putting on the shows, and was almost 80 when she called it a day.

Eileen was born in Edmonton, north London, in 1929.

After leaving school, she worked as a secretary at the British Oxygen Company.

She married husband Jim and helped run their grocers’ shop in Bethnal Green before taking over a pet shop in Chingford.

The couple moved to Hollandon- Sea in 1965 with daughters Wendy, Julie and Catherine, and opened Blenko’s grocery store, in Kings Avenue.

Eileen ran the bakery next door, where Scissors hair salon is today.

Julie said: “Mum was famous for her home-made bread pudding. She made it every day and people used to love it.

“She was secretary of the 129 Club, where her shorthand skills came in handy, and was also a valued member of Holland Carnival Association.”

Eileen had Alzheimer’s disease for the last five years of her life and was looked after by Brooklyn Care Home, in Nelson Road, Clacton.

She passed away peacefully on February 26. The funeral takes place at Weeley Crematorium on March 31 at 5pm.