DAME PATRICIA

Legacy of laughter

- BY MARK JEFFERIES and KERRI-ANN ROPER

SNOOTY Hyacinth Bucket had a massively inflated opinion of herself - but the woman who played her really was a cut above. Patricia Routledge, who portrayed the snobby character in BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, was one of Britain's best comedy actresses.

The versatile star, who was also captivating in serious roles, has died aged 96 after a prolific career on stage and screen, including in crime drama series Hetty Wainthropp Investigates.

Her agent said: "We are saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep surrounded by love.

"Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia's passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned. She will be dearly missed around the world."

Keeping Up Appearances creator Roy Clarke said: "It's a fortunate coincidence to find your scripts in the hands of so accomplished an actor.

"She was a singer and it showed in the way she could use her voice without music. It was an instrument. She was also a very fine physical clown. I salute her talents and regret their passing."