Tall and blonde, Shirley English was one of those background actors that stood out more than most. She appeared in a number classic British comedy films and sitcoms throughout the 70s, most notably three 'Carry on' films and two 'On the Buses' films.

Her biggest role was in Haydi kızlar (1973), starring alongside June Whitfield, Patricia Franklin and Patsy Rowlands as a feminist liberator. She appeared in the classic bra-burning and beauty contest sabotage sequences. Prior to this, she had appeared in the hospital in Carry on Matron (1972). Shirley also appeared shouting at a football match in Carry on Emmannuelle (1978).

She appeared as a canteen lady in On the Buses (1971) and getting off a bus in Mutiny on the Buses (1972).

Television appearances included the classic sitcoms Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em (1973), Mind Your Language (1977) and Are You Being Served? (1972). She also appeared in an episode of Comedy Playhouse (1971).

As well as sitcoms, Shirley appeared in television dramas including The Sweeney (1975) and Minder (1979) and regularly appeared in Within These Walls (1974).

In addition to playing bit parts and extras, Shirley also worked as a double. For example to Ann Zelda in 1977.

Prior to retiring in the early 2000s, Shirley appeared regularly in EastEnders (1985) for the BBC.