Actress Anna Dawson, known for her role as Violet, sister to Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, has passed away at 88. The Bolton-born star died "peacefully" on Saturday 27 June.
Anna's death was confirmed by her church, Christ Church Anglican at Kororāreka Russell, in New Zealand. The statement read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of a much treasured member of our faith community, former actress Anna Boulter (nee Dawson).
© BBC"Many from the Russell community will remember Anna and her late husband John Boulter who lived in Okiato and Tapeka. Funeral details to follow."
Anna's death follows the passing of her husband, John Boulter, just six months prior. John was known for his work as a soloist on the BBC's long-running variety program, The Black and White Minstrel Show. He died aged 94 in December last year.
Tributes have poured in on social media, with one person writing on X: "RIP Anna Dawson (Violet, Keeping Up Appearances). Thank you for the laughter."
Only Fools And Horses star John Challis' widow Carol also paid tribute, writing: "Sad news. An old friend. God bless you, Anna."
Anna Dawson's career
Anna, who trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama, enjoyed a distinguished career spanning both stage and television.
Her screen work began in the 1960s with appearances in the long-running police drama Dixon of Dock Green and the sketch show Slapstick and Old Lace.
© Getty ImagesShe went on to appear on programmes such as The Benny Hill Show, Blankety Blank and The Generation Game. She also starred in various West End musicals.
Her most notable role was as Violet in Keeping Up Appearances during the show's final series, after which she stepped away from professional acting.
Dame Patricia Routledge's death
Anna's passing comes almost a year after the death of her Keeping Up Appearances co-star, Dame Patricia Routledge, who starred as Hyacinth Bucket.
Dame Patricia passed away peacefully in her sleep and "surrounded by love," according to her agent, who praised Patricia's "passion for her work" and ability to "connect with live audiences".
© Getty ImagesThe statement, which was released in October last year, continued: "She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world."
