Dame Barbara Windsor's widow Scott Mitchell has paid tribute to Anna Karen following her tragic death on Tuesday at the age of 85.
The On The Buses and EastEnders actress died in a fire at her home in Ilford - the cause of which has not yet been confirmed.
Karen was best friends with Windsor, who died in 2020, and delivered a heartfelt eulogy at her funeral.
"I am desperately sad and shocked to hear of how Anna has passed away," said Mitchell. "Barbara and Anna were lifelong friends and Anna was always what I considered to be Barbara's only real girlfriend.
"Anna had seen Barbara go through every stage of her life and their late night phone calls together before Barbara's illness, will always be a fond memory for me of hearing them put the world to rights.
"Anna and I had kept in regular contact since Barbara's passing and she was a good friend and support to me when things were tough and we spoke a couple of weeks ago.
"It was a fun chat and I thought how upbeat she sounded. We always shared memories and jokes about Barbara. Anna was one of three I asked to speak at Barbara's funeral.
"I will remember her straight talking, great humour and intelligence. May she rest in peace."
Karen is survived by her step-daughter Gloria.
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