BBC The Archers star Ysanne Churchman dies aged 99 as tributes paid to 'wonderful' star

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Ysanne Churchman, best known for her role as Grace Archer in the 1950s Radio 4 drama The Archers, has passed away at the age of 99.She lent her voice to the character of Grace Archer and remained a part of the BBC family in various radio and TV capacities even after her character's demise.

The BBC released a statement from Ysanne's family confirming that she died peacefully at her home on July 4.Jeremy Howe, the current editor of The Archers, expressed his condolences: "We are saddened by the death of Ysanne Churchman, whose role as the inimitable Grace Archer captured the nation."In the 1950s, Ysanne was at the heart of one of Ambridge's most shocking storylines, with listeners so distraught at her character's death they subsequently jammed BBC switchboards.""Ysanne was a wonderful actress and off air she campaigned tirelessly for equal pay for women in the industry.

She will be much missed by all at The Archers and our hearts are with her friends and family." The episode where Ysanne's character Grace tragically died trying to save a horse from a barn fire drew an audience of 20 million listeners in 1955, reports the Mirror.Broadcast on September 22, it coincided with ITV's launch night, sparking speculation that the BBC had timed the dramatic event to eclipse their competitor's debut. Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.