Liverpool-born actress Elsie Kelly has died at the age of 89.
Kelly appeared in a wide range of TV shows in a career that spanned five decades including Crossroads, where she made her debut in 1979, and The Famous Five.
But she became best known for her role as Noreen Maltby in the hit ITV comedy Benidorm, where she played the mother of St Helens-born Johnny Vegas’ character.
The Bootle native became a popular figur since appearing from the show’s inception in 2007 until 2012 before reprising her role between 2015 and 2018.
Away from the small screen, Kelly was also familiar for her stage work, starring in productions such as Annie, 42nd Street, Oliver, The Sound of Music and Hello Dolly.
She retained a strong link with her roots as Head of Theatre Studies at Liverpool’s Elliott Clarke College and permanent director of the Birkenhead Operatic Society.
Kelly passed away peacefully on Tuesday (April 21) following a short illness. She is survived by sons Chris and Geoff as well as grandson Elliott.
Benidorm co-star and fellow Liverpudlian Crissy Rock joined the outpouring of tributes to the late performer after news of her death was confirmed.
“So sad to hear of the passing of Elsie Kelly this morning,” she wrote on Facebook.
“We shared so many wonderful memories filming Benidorm, moments I’ll always treasure.
“She was an absolute joy to work with and brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went.
“I was so touched that she came to see me on tour a couple of times recently at St Helens Theatre Royal – it meant a lot.
“Thinking of her family and all who loved her. She’ll be deeply missed.”