ADORABLE scarecrow Worzel Gummidge was a Christmas telly highlight last year.
And this year he’s back for Christmas. In this episode, Worzel will come across Saucy Nancy, the figurehead of a ruined ship. Here’s who will be playing the foul-mouthed character…
Saucy Nancy was played by none other than the legendary Dame Barbara Windsor in the original Worzel Gummidge.
She starred in the original kids show alongside famous actors of the day, including Billy Connolly, Bill Maynard, Joan Sims, Lorraine Chase.
Dame Barbara is best known for her appearances in the series of Carry On films and for playing pub landlord Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders with her famous line: “Get out of my pub!”
Windor sadly passed away on December 10 2020, eight years after first being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Mackenzie Crook is the writer, director and star of the reboot of the classic children’s show.
The Sun asked Mackenzie if he thinks the hour-long programme is a fitting tribute to Dame Barbara.
He responded: “Absolutely, yes. She played the original version and a lot of people will remember that fondly.
“It’s so sad that she died just weeks before our new one went out.”
The actor also said about the episodes: “I’m excited and grateful to be making a new episode of Worzel Gummidge after a difficult year for everyone.
“We’re heading out of Scatterbrook for this story, on a day trip to the seaside, some fresh air and some wide open space.”
Shirley Henderson takes on the part played by the Carry On star.
Actress Shirley, known for her role as Moaning Myrtle in the Harry Potter films, is famous for her high, child-like voice.
She has also featured in films such as Topsy-Turvy, Wilbur Wants to Kill Himself, Frozen, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day, Anna Karenina, and the Netflix film Okja.
You may also recognise Shirley from BBC show ABC Murders, in which she played Rose Marbury.
She will star alongside India Brown as Susan, Thierry Wickens as John, and Vanessa Redgrave as Peg.
Worzel Gummidge: Saucy Nancy is on Christmas Eve
