TV royalty Dame Barbara Windsor, best known for her roles in the Carry On films and her portrayal of the almighty Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders, was honoured at the TV Choice Awards last night.
Her award couldn’t have come at a more poignant time, as Barbara’s beloved alter-ego Peggy bowed out of EastEnders earlier this year following a heart breaking storyline that saw her take her own life during a battle with cancer.
Accepting her award, Barbara said: "I have been in the business for over 66 years and I have been fortunate to have been involved in some truly outstanding productions that all mean so much to me, so to know that they also mean a lot to the audience is extremely touching.
"Everyone knows how much love I have for EastEnders and that show has played such a pivotal part in my career, without it I may not be receiving this award. Although Peggy may no longer be with us, she and the show will never leave my heart."
Awwwww!
We couldn’t think of a more worthy recipient!
It seems Peggy made a huge impression on partygoers too, as she posed for pictures with the likes of Ferne McCann who described the actress as ‘iconic’.
Posting a picture on Instagram, Ferne said: “Wow well #tvchoiceawardsI am done! I have met and had a photo with the one and only iconic Barbara Windsor. I can't believe she knew who I was. We had the most amazing, inspiring chat. Lots of love.”
Despite Barbara flying the flag for EastEnders, it was Emmerdale who won big at last night’s awards – winning the ‘Best Soap’ gong for the first time EVER!
**Full list of winners: **
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