Comedian, actor and writer Victoria Wood has died at 62 following a short battle with cancer. She was best known for her BBC shows such as As Seen On TV (featuring show-within-a-show Acorn Antiques) and Dinnerladies. Both of these featured her long-time collaborator Julie Walters. She was also a Bafta-winning actress for her role in ITV's Housewife, 49, a drama written by her and set in a Lancashire town during the Second World War.

In this gallery, we look back at the life and career of one of Britain's best-loved entertainers.

Her publicist, Neil Reading, said: "Victoria Wood has sadly passed away, after a short but brave battle with cancer. The multi Bafta award-winning writer, director, actor and comedian died peacefully at her north London home with family this morning. She was 62. The family ask for privacy at this very sad time."

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