Alzheimer’s Society pays tribute to Lynda Bellingham’s charity work

Actress and presenter Lynda Bellingham, who had cancer, has died aged 66. Best known for her work in All Creatures Great and Small as well as a long running role in the Oxo TV adverts and on the panel of ITV’s Loose Women, she was a prominent ambassador for Alzheimer’s Society.

Lynda regularly spoke out on behalf of people with dementia, campaigned to raise awareness of the condition and was one of the country’s first Dementia Friends. She was diagnosed with cancer in July 2013.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society said: “Lynda was a dedicated and passionate ambassador for Alzheimer’s Society. Always ready to take up the baton, she campaigned on our behalf for many years to help improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers.

“Her experience of living with her mother’s Alzheimer’s disease gave her the insight and compassion to fight for people’s rights and her great talent as an actor made our events such fun. She made everyone feel comfortable and relaxed and always went the extra mile to ensure that each event she attended was a success.

“Her courage in facing her illness was admirable and inspirational and we will all remember her with deep affection. Our thoughts go out to her husband Michael and sons Michael and Robert."

Lynda Bellingham was born in Montreal, Canada, but grew up near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire after being adopted. She studied at the Central School of Speech and Drama and went on to land roles including Helen Herriot in All Creatures Great And Small and the title role in sitcom Faith In The Future.

The actress, who had two sons and was married three times, was awarded an OBE in 2013 for her charity work.