My friend Pauline Stroud, who has died of cancer aged 92, started her acting career with a starring role in the film Lady Godiva Rides Again in 1951. Pauline played Marjorie Clark, who, having taken the role of Godiva in a local town parade, is persuaded to take part in the Miss Fascination Soap beauty contest. Other contestants were played by Joan Collins, Jean Marsh and Diana Dors, and the film also featured Stanley Holloway, George Cole and Sid James.
Pauline was an only child, born in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, to Leslie Stroud, an accountant, and Daisy (nee Waters). She initially attended a convent school – until her mother suspected that she was being considered as a possible recruit to the sisterhood. Thereafter she was educated privately, and her lessons included ballet and horse riding.
