Sitcom star dies at 96

DAME Patricia Routledge, best known for her role as Hyacinth Bucket in BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, has died at the age of 96, her agent said.

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She played the snobbish character on the BBC programme in the early 1990s, but also had a prolific career in the theatre.

A statement to the PA news agency yesterday said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love. Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia's passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles.

"She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world."