`Everyone felt they knew Dame Thora'

Mar 17 2003 By Ed Reed, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Those who loved her work have been contacting the icHuddersfield web message board.

Pauline, from Kentwood, Michigan, wrote to say: "I have always loved Thora and her work and my daughter, Vicky, states her as her favourite actress (a wise choice indeed). Her performances in Talking Heads and Lost for Words showed her range.

"Also, let's not forget the way she showed her beliefs, in a very down to earth and normal way.

"She talked to God as though He was walking around with her (which of course He was). Now, she's a step closer to Him. Thanks Thora for sharing your gifts with us. You'll be missed."

Pat Carline, from Doncaster, had these words: "Goodbye Thora, we will miss you. Thank you for giving us Edie for so many years and for the joy and laughter and sometimes tears we shared with the other wonderful people you introduced us to.

"But in our loss and sadness we hold one thought - that you are, once more, with your darling 'Scottie'."

Rita and Derek Whitwam, from Lower Hutt, New Zealand, wrote simply: "Farewell Dame Thora. We loved you."

Jean Steigleman, from Ellicott City, USA, got in touch to say: "Dame Thora had a big heart, as big as the country she called home. It was a heart big enough to be kind to fans and to be gentle enough with the character of Edie Pegden that she was funny and sympathetic at the same time.

"She never stopped giving."

Rob Brown, from Vancouver in Canada, admired Dame Thora for her acting range. He said: "As the years went by she was always a pleasure to watch, especially in Last of the Summer Wine.

"In Lost for Words she related so well to families who have ageing members . She will be sadly missed by many who watch British TV."