Veteran comic actress Dame June Whitfield has died aged 93

Veteran comic actress Dame June Whitfield has died aged 93, her agent has confirmed.

The star enjoyed a career stretching back to the 1940s, including roles in the Carry On films and the long-running sitcom Terry And June.

She was made a dame in the 2017 Birthday Honours for her services to drama and entertainment in a career spanning eight decades.

Dame June's agent said she "passed away peacefully last night".

In a statement, Shane Allen, controller of BBC Comedy, said: "June Whitfield was the North Star of British comedy.

"Her spectacular career is unparalleled in its longevity, with seven decades of being a key element in numerous high profile and successful shows.

"She was the go-to female comedy performer of her generation and was always in demand from the cream of British comedy.

"She led the way for female comedy and we owe her enormous respect. Our thoughts go out to family and friends at this sad time."

Producer, Jon Plowman, who worked on episodes of Absolutely Fabulous, tweeted that he was "very sad" to hear the news.

He said: "There was no-one with more warmth or a better ability to just 'place' a line, always an act of utter precision.

"Hit after hit! Take it from Here Terry and June Absolutely Fabulous over seven decade. A great loss."

Impressionist Rory Bremner has also paid tribute to Dame June on Twitter, saying she was the "go-to comedy actress for three generations".