Barbara Windsor quits Eastenders

Wed Oct 28 2009 20:29:49

EastEnders star Barbara Windsor is to leave Albert Square after more than 15 years in the soap.

The 72-year-old actress, who plays landlady Peggy Mitchell, will leave Walford next year.

Windsor, also known to generations for her roles in the Carry On movies, said she would be sad to leave but wants to spend more time with her husband.

As Peggy, the actress has yelled "Get outta my pub" at many of the most famous characters that have walked through the doors of the Queen Vic since joining the cast in 1994.

Barbara Windsor - born Barbara Ann Deeks - said: "EastEnders has been wonderful to me and it's no secret that it changed my life all of those years ago."

"I'll be so sad to leave Peggy behind, she's such a wonderful character to play. I have had the pleasure of working with a marvellous cast and crew and have made many lasting good friends."

She added: "To have had the honour of showing the Queen around the set is something that will stay with me forever."

"I must thank the wonderful viewers for their support over the years. I'm looking forward to the future and I suppose when all's said and done, I should spend a bit more time with my old man, as he's not getting any younger."

She was awarded an MBE in 1999 and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Soap Awards in May this year.

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