Former EastEnders actress Jane Whittenshaw has died.

The star, best known for her role as Anita Banks, died ‘peacefully’ surrounded by her husband, best friend and carers, according to her agent.

The statement read: ‘It is with profound sadness we must announce the passing of Jane Whittenshaw, a much loved and highly respected client of over 30 years. She slipped away peacefully on Saturday last, with her husband Hugh, best friend Rebecca and carers at her side.’

It continued: ‘As well as an esteemed client, Jane was a dear friend, who was generous to a fault and great fun to be around. She was an immensely talented actor and a voice superstar, who leaves an extraordinary legacy of over 500 radio plays, courtesy of multiple stints on the BBC Radio Rep and many independent productions.

After a successful application, Mark and Ruth were assisted by Anita, who helped them welcome their first foster child, Jessie Moore, to the family.

As well as starring in The Bill and Grange Hill, Jane is also best known for her roles in Call the Midwife and Broadchurch.

In the BBC One midwifery drama, she played Nurse Barrington, a character who appeared in the 2017 series.

In Broadchurch, which followed detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman), she portrayed Linda, who featured in the 2017 series that saw Alec and Ellie investigate the rape of Trish Winterman (Julie Hesmondhalgh).

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