Victoria Wood, singer, writer and comedian died yesterday after a "short but brave" battle with cancer aged 62. Her publicist announced that the star "died peacefully at her north London home with family" on Wednesday. Known best for her BBC comedy Dinnerladies and sketch Acorn Antiques, Wood found fame in the 1980's, winning 5 BAFTA's including 2 for her ITV drama Housewife, 49.

Sir Lenny Henry said: "I am devastated - this is very, very sad news. Victoria will be sorely missed. Always funny, she worked incredibly hard. A killer stand-up and a fantastic songwriter. My condolences to all her family."

Victoria Wood was made an OBE in 1997 and later received a CBE in 2008,