Appeared in both BBC productions of Bleak House, the 1985 version and the 2005 version.
Had her scenes from 'Love Actually' (2003) cut from the final film, they feature in the DVD extras. She played the school Headmistress, whose lesbian lover was played by Frances de la Tour.
One son, Mark, born 1971.
She was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2010 Queen's Birthday Honours List for her services to Drama.
Trained at RADA.
Turned down a role in 'Calendar Girls' (2003) so she could star in 'The Mother' (2003).