The actor Josephine Tewson, who has died aged 91, was a doughty foot soldier in the comedy ranks, a gifted performer of great value when playing opposite some of British TV’s biggest stars during a career that spanned more than 50 years.
No part encapsulated her worth more than that of Elizabeth (Liz) Warden, the nervy, fretful neighbour of snobbish Hyacinth Bucket in the hugely popular sitcom Keeping Up Appearances (1990-95). As part of a quality ensemble of character players orbiting Patricia Routledge’s star turn as Hyacinth, Tewson assumed a front of forced politeness as Liz dealt with her socially ambitious neighbour’s antics, her expressive eyes widening in barely concealed panic at a command to come round for tea.
