'Joy to so many' Old Vic in tribute to former student Dame Patricia

THE Bristol theatre where Dame Patricia Routledge trained has paid tribute to the "magnificent" actress following news of her death on Friday.

- Staff REPORTER

Dame Patricia Routledge in her role as TV's Hyacinth Bucket

(Pic: Mirrorpix)

Dame Patricia, best known for TV show Keeping Up Appearances, has died aged 96, her agent said.

Writing on Facebook after the announcement, Bristol Old Vic said: "Bristol Old Vic is remembering the magnificent Dame Patricia Routledge today.

"An alumni of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, she went on to perform at BOV many times, from Christmas productions to Chekhov, and in later years was a great supporter of both young actors and the theatre refurbishment.

"Our thoughts are with her and her friends and family as we remember the joy she brought to so many over a long and illustrious career."

Patricia Routledge was born in Tranmere in Birkenhead to a family in the haberdashery trade, and initially studied English Language and Literature at the University of Liverpool, where she became active in the university dramatic society.