Needham Market-born EastEnders actress June Brown dies aged 95

Suffolk-born EastEnders actress June Brown, famed for playing Dot Cotton, has died aged 95.

The actress, who was born in Needham Market, played the fan-favourite character for 35 years and died at her home in Surrey last night.

She left the role in 2020 having joined the BBC soap in 1985, the year it was created.

An EastEnders spokesman said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved June Brown, OBE, MBE sadly passed away last night.

"There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.

"June created one of the most iconic characters in Dot Cotton, not just in soap but in British television, and having appeared in 2884 episodes, June’s remarkable performances created some of EastEnders finest moments.

"We send all our love and deepest sympathies to June’s family and friends.

"A very bright light has gone out at EastEnders today - we shall all be raising a sweet sherry in June’s memory. Rest in peace, our dearest June.

"You will never be forgotten."

A statement from her family said: "We are deeply saddened to announce our beloved mother, June, passed away very peacefully at her home in Surrey on Sunday evening, with her family by her side.

"We would kindly ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time"