June Spencer dead: BBC star who played Peggy in The Archers dies aged 105 as emotional tributes pour in
BBC STAR June Spencer, who played Peggy in The Archers, has died aged 105.
A statement said June died peacefully in her sleep in the early hours of this morning.
It read: “Her family would like to pay particular tribute and thanks to the staff team at Liberham Lodge, who so lovingly cared for her in the last two years.”
June played old-fashioned rural lady Peggy Woolley in Radio 4 The Archers and was the last surviving original cast member.
Queen Camilla was among her fans – inviting her to Clarence House for a reception to mark the show’s 70th anniversary.
At the time, Camilla said: “June’s character Peggy is a true national treasure.
“She has been part of my life, and millions of others, for as long as I can remember.”
In a 2019 interview, June said: “I had no idea I’d be ever be 100 for a start, let alone still working!
“It’s been marvellous, I hope I can keep on doing it for a bit, and perhaps set an example to older people who have just given up.
“In 1950 I helped to plant an acorn. It took root and in January 1951 it was planted out and called The Archers.
“Over the years it has thrived and become a splendid great tree with many branches.
“But now this old branch, known as Peggy, has become weak and unsafe.
“I decided it was high time she ‘boughed’ out, so I have duly lopped her.”
Away from The Archers, June also appeared on Doctors and Songs of Praise.