Sybil Cudlipp was an elocution teacher who was hired by Annie Walker in 1973 a few weeks before she was to become Mayoress of Weatherfield. Annie had prior experience in public speaking through her position as chairperson of the Lady Victuallers so she only wanted to hone her skills with Mrs Cudlipp. Even more grand dame than Annie, and wearing a blue coat, hat and glasses, Mrs Cudlipp arrived at the Rovers for Annie's first lesson and was led through to the back by Betty Turpin, giving the barmaid a look when she asked if she was there to teach Annie to "talk proper".