News has just broken that Victoria Wood, renowned British comedian and writer, has died today aged 62 after "a short but brave" battle with cancer.
In a statement, released by her publicist Neil Reading, it was said she "died peacefully at her north London home with family this morning."
Wood got her first break on the TV talent show 'New Faces' in 1974, while still a student at Birmingham University, before going on to find fame on 'As Seen ON TV' in the 1980s. During her lifetime she was thoroughly dedicated to the arts, going on to create hit shows such as Acorn Antiques, Dinnerladies and Housewife 49, and won five BAFTAs throughout her career. She was awarded a CBE in 2008 for her outstanding contribution to the arts in Britain.
Tributes have been pouring in, including those from her former co-stars and political figures.
That's Life! presenter and Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen said to the BBC: "I think she is one of our greatest comic writers and performers, but she could also deal with serious issues as well, and she's a huge loss. She did a one-woman show for Childline where I felt hugely privileged to interview her and she told the story of her life with such wit. She just held us all enchanted for a whole evening."
British Prime Minister David Cameron released this statement: "Victoria Wood was a national treasure loved by millions. My thoughts are with her family".
Victoria Wood was a national treasure loved by millions. My thoughts are with her family.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) April 20, 2016
Other celebrities are continuing to share their condolences, such as fellow comedian Ricky Gervais.
RIP the brilliant Victoria Wood. So innovative, funny and down to earth.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) April 20, 2016
This has not been a good year.
Asda has it's very own connection to the comedian, having worked with her in the 1980s to produce some advertisements as part of a campaign to shine light on the every day heroes who work at Asda. As part of the campaign and to highlight the extraordinary effort of the colleagues, Victoria spent three days working at the bakery in store.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Victoria Wood.