HOMETOWN HONOUR FOR ACTING ICON

DAME Patricia Routledge found fame in Merseyside before she went on to become a household name.

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The star was educated at Birkenhead High School, the University of Liverpool, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, and the Guildhall School of Music. As a teenager, she was undecided between the careers of actress, singer or teacher, but her path led her to stardom as she became a national treasure.

Dame Patricia returned to her home town in January of this year to receive Wirral's highest honour, the Honorary Freedom of the Borough. The award was given to the Keeping up Appearances star at a special reception in Birkenhead town hall.