thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Celebrities that have passed away in 2020

What a year it 's been , from the coronavirus and multiple lockdowns to the passing of some of our most-loved celebrities .
We 've taken a look back at the stars that have sadly passed away this year : American actress Abby Dalton died on November 21 aged 88 after suffering from a long-term illness .
The actress is best known for her role as winery heiress Julia Cumson on the CBS soap Falcon Crest .
She also starred in sitcoms such as Hennesey and The Joey Bishop Show .
Her role as Martha Hale in Hennesey landed her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 1961 .
The singer-songwriter died from the coronavirus on April 1 , aged 52 .
Founding member of Fountains of Wayne , Adam Schlesinger co-wrote the iconic Stacy ’ s Mom with Fountains of Wayne lead singer Chris Collingwood .
He was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe Award for writing the title track of the Tom Hanks-directed film That Thing You Do !
as well as two other songs for the movie .
He appeared in all three original films as different characters but is best known for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wars : The Empire Strikes Back .
He also played the role of a Stormtrooper in the original trilogy .
Harris died following a battle with lung cancer , which he was diagnosed with in 2018 .
He was best known for writing Joan Jett ’ s I Love Rock ’ N ’ Roll .
In the early 1970s , Merrill was one of the first westerners to achieve pop star status in Japan .
He was one of the key DJs in the acid house movement of the late 1980s .
Archie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fools and Horses star Nicholas Lyndhurst , died aged 19 on September 22 .
The teenager died after a `` short illness '' and was found at his family home in Fulham .
Emergency services had been called `` to a report of a concern for welfare '' and Archie was declared dead at the scene .
It was treated as `` unexplained but not suspicious '' and was not investigated further by police .
National treasure Dame Barbara Windsor passed away at a London care home on December 10 , aged 83 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s .
The iconic actress is best-known for playing Peggy Mitchell in Eastenders and for her role in the Carry On films .
Robert Joel Kulick was a Grammy award winning American guitarist and record producer , who worked with numerous acts such as Kiss , W.A.S.P.
, Meat Loaf and Michael Bolton .
He died aged 70 on May 28 .
Journalist and CNN Headline News anchor Bobbie Battista died at the age of 67 on March 3 .
Her family confirmed she died after a four-year long battle with cervical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the original CNN Headline News anchors when the network launched in 1981 .
Bobby Ball and Tommy Cannon Outside the Dominion Theatre , London ( PA ) Comedian Bobby Ball died aged 76 on October 28 after testing positive for Covid-19 .
Best known as one half of the comedy double act Cannon and Ball , Bobby also starred in the 2005 series of I 'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here !
He continued working the comedy circuit until shortly before his death , and his sons even said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in hospital .
Brian Dennehy died at the age of 81 on April 15 .
The legendary American actor began his incredible career in the 1970s with guest roles on TV shows like Kojak , M*A*S*H , Lou Grant and Dallas .
In 1981 he landed a recurring role on the popular soap Dynasty .
But his huge movie break came in 1982 when he starred in Sylvester Stallone ’ s Rambo : First Blood .
Film writer Buck Henry passed away of a heart attack at the age of 89 in Los @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Oscar nomination for The Graduate , and also co-wrote the screwball masterpiece What ’ s Up , Doc ?
in 1972 .
He later wrote Gus Van Sant ’ s black Comedy To Die For , starring Nicole Kidman .
Actress Carol Sutton died on December 10 at the age of 76 in New Orleans after a battle with the coronavirus .
She appeared in more than 100 movies but is best known for her roles in Steel Magnolias , Ray and Monster ’ s Ball .
TV and radio presenter Caroline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aged 40 .
The enigmatic star began her career as an actress , starring in Bo ' Selecta !
and presented various ITV2 shows including I 'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here !
NOW !
and The Xtra Factor .
She won the twelfth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 and the following year she began presenting The X Factor – replacing the long-standing presenter Dermot O'Leary .
She also presented the hit TV show Love Island between 2015 to 2019 .
Actor and playwright Chadwick Boseman died on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016 .
Despite being diagnosed with cancer , he went on to star in a range of films , such as Captain America : Civil War , Avengers : Infinity War and Avengers : Endgame .
He also starred in other films such as Marshall and Da 5 Bloods .
Dream Street singer Chris Trousdale died at the age of 34 on June 2 after contracting coronavirus .
He joined the band in 1999 when he was 14 , and they shot to global fame after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Summer Wine star Christopher Beeny dead aged 78 on January 3 .
The British actor made his TV breakthrough in the BBC series The Grove Family in the 1950s .
He also appeared as Geoffrey in the single mother sitcom Miss Jones and Son in 1977 .
Rapper Chynna Rogers died at the age of 25 from a drug overdose on April 8 , according to police .
She started her career aged 14 after signing to Ford Models .
After becoming involved with the A $ AP Mob , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Being invested a Dame Commander of the British Empire at Buckingham Palace in 1975 ( PA )  National treasure Dame Vera Lynn passed away at the age of 103 on June 18 .
Widely referred to as the `` Forces ' Sweetheart '' she gave outdoor concerts for troops in Egypt , India and Burma during the war as part of Entertainments National Service Association .
She is best known for her songs ‘ We ’ ll Meet Again ’ , ‘ The White Cliffs of Dover ’ and ‘ There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dave Prowse signing autographs at the London Film and Comic Con at Earls Court , London , in 2013 ( Sean Dempsey/PA ) David Prowse MBE was a bodybuilder , weightlifter and actor , best known for physically portraying Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy and a manservant in Stanley Kubrick 's 1971 film A Clockwork Orange .
Other roles that Dave starred in during his lengthy career was Doctor Who in 1972 , The Kenneth Williams Show , The Morecambe & Wise Show and The Two Ronnies .
David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died at the age of 61 on February 25 .
The producer , guitarist and keyboardist formed the band alongside Hope Sandoval and played a lead role in the net-psychedelic movement in the 1980s and 1990s .
Rapper , Black The Ripper , whose real name was Dean West , died at the age of 32 on April 6 .
After an autopsy his family confirmed that his death was due to a heart attack , he was buried at Edmonton Cemetery .
He came to fame in the early noughties with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She was best known for singing on the Primal Scream album Screamadelica , performing with the groups throughout the 1990s .
She joined the soul group Fifth of Heaven in the late 1980s , before being introduced to Primal Scream .
Derek Acorah died from pneumonia at the age of 69 on January 3 .
Derek , who was best known for appearing on Most Haunted , had been taken to hospital for sepsis .
He shot to fame alongside Yvette Fielding , and went on to present Derek Acorah ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Jackson : The Search for HIs Spirit in 2009 .
Actor Derek Fowlds was best known for his TV appearances including The Basil Brush Show , Yes Minister and Heartbeat which he starred in for 18 years .
He died at Royal United Hospitals Bath in the early hours of Friday morning on January 17 at the age of 82 .
The comedian , actor and television presenter formerly hosted Countdown and entertained the nation for more than 60 years on screen .
His chat show series , Des O ’ Connor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both BBC and ITV .
The Game of Thrones and Avengers star died at the age of 82 on September 10 .
Rigg became a Bond Girl in 1969 portraying Teresa Draco in On Her Majesty ’ s Secret Service .
She won a number of awards , including a BAFTA , Tony and Emmy .
The Argentinian football star famously captained his national team to victory in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico .
This is where he scored his infamous “ Hand of God ” goal during the quarter-final match against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the hip-hop electronic crossover group Foreign Beggars .
The group first performed in London in 2002 , and quickly became one of the UK ’ s most prominent underground hip-hop groups .
They went on to release electronic dance music records , including United Colours of Beggattron .
Edd Byrnes was best known for his role as dance-show host Vince Fontaine in Grease , where he hosted the National Bandstand .
He passed away on January 8 , aged 87 .
Eddie Van Halen was the main songwriter and guitarist of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died of a stroke at Saint John 's Health Center in Santa Monica , California on October 6 , aged 65 .
Actor Fred Willard died aged 83 on May 15 , he appeared in a number of hit shows including Everybody Loves Raymond and Modern Family .
He also starred in the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap , and box office hits such as Anchorman and WALL-E. TV director Gene Reynolds passed away on Monday , February 3 at the age of 96 on February 3 .
He was best known for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ran for 11 years , alongside Larry Gelbart .
Gene was awarded three Emmys for the much-loved Show and was also awarded the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Direction of a Drama Series once for his work on Lou Grant .
Geno Silva was an American actor best known for his role as The Skull in Alejandro Sosa 's silent hitman in Scarface .
He also appeared in films such as 1941 , Tequila Sunrise , The Lost World : Jurassic Park and Amistad .
Silva died at his home in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a form of dementia .
The Great Escape actor George Mikell died aged 91 of natural causes on May 12 .
His first major role was playing an SS officer named Sessler in the 1961 hit The Guns of Nazarone .
In 1963 he played another SS officer in The Great Escape , alongside Steve McQueen .
Actor Harry Hains died on January 7 at the age of 27 , he was best known for starring in American Horror Story .
His mother , Jane Badler , announced the news , saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and addiction ” She said : “ A brilliant spark shone bright too short a time.
” Liverpool born Hilary Heath was best known for her acting role in Wuthering Heights .
She died on April 3 from coronavirus complications at the age of 74 .
After retiring from acting , she produced Mike Newell 's An Awfully Big Adventure , which starred Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman .
Famous for playing Bilbo Baggins , Ian Holm CBE died after a battle with Parkinson ’ s disease on June 19 aged 88 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ coach Sam Mussabini in the 1981 film Chariots of Fire – a portrayal which bagged him a Bafta and an Oscar nod .
He also played priest Vito Cornelius in The Fifth Element and lawyer Mitchell Stephens in The Sweet Hereafter .
Most recently , he played the older Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit : An Unexpected Journey and The Hobbit : The Battle of the Five Armies .
Irrfan Khan was an Indian actor who worked in Hindi cinema as well as British and American films .
He passed away on April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remembered in the West for his roles in hit films Slumdog Millionaire and Life Of Pi .
Hollywood actor Jack Kehoe died at the age of 85 on January 14 , five years after he suffered a debilitating stroke .
He was best known for his role in the Oscar-winning film The Sting .
He also played the role of “ Erie Kid ” , and stars alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford .
During his 50-year career he has starred alongside legends such as Al Pacino in the hit film , Serpico @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Big Brother icon Jackie Stallone died in her sleep on September 21 aged 98 .
During her life Jackie had a varied career , appearing on the 1980s wrestling show GLOW : Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling before publishing astrology books and setting up a psychic hotline in the 1990s .
Jacqueline was famous for playing the sister of David Janssen 's man on the run in The Fugitive and the wife of Walter Matthau 's bank robber in Charley Varrick .
Jason Davis , who voiced the character of Michael “ Mikey ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died on February 16 at the age of 35 from an accidental Fentanyl overdose .
The voice actor also appeared on the fourth season of VH1 show Celebrity Rehab with Dr Drew in 2010 .
Davis had recently been admitted to the Cure Addiction Now charity , that he co-founded .
Actor Jeremy Bulloch died on December 17 , aged 75 after battling with Parkinson ’ s disease .
The actor was best known for playing Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy .
Jeremy also starred in a number of other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bond .
He also starred in TV series such as Newcomers , Doctor Who , Agony and Robin of Sherwood , as well as several West End theatre productions .
Actress Jill Gascoine died at the age of 83 on April 29 after living with Alzheimer ’ s for 10 years .
She was Detective Inspector Maggie Forbes in the 1980s television series The Gentle Touch and its spin-off series C.A.T.S .
Eyes .
In the 1990s , she also became a novelist and published three books .
Wilbur James Cobb , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manhattan on May 24 , aged 91 .
He was part of Miles Davis 's First Great Sextet .
At the time of his death , he had been the band 's last surviving member for nearly thirty years .
Country music singer and songwriter , Joe Diffie rose to fame in the mid 1980s and signed with Epic Records in 1990 .
Some of his best known songs include ‘ Home ’ , ‘ The the Devil Danced ’ and ‘ Third Rock from the Sun ’ .
He died in Nashville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 61 from coronavirus .
Punk rock drummer Joey Image joined Misfits in 1978 and was the drummer for both the `` Horror Business '' and `` Night of the Living Dead '' sessions of 1979 .
In 2016 he was diagnosed with liver cancer and died on June 1 at the age of 63 .
Actor John Karlen played multiple roles on the ABC serial Dark Shadows from 1967 to 1971 .
He passed away from congestive heart failure at a hospice in California on January 22 at the age of 86 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the RSC and National Theatre , John Shrapnel passed away on Valentine ’ s Day at the age of 77 .
Kellye Nakahara was an American actress , best known for playing Nurse Kealani Kellye in 167 episodes of the television comedy M*A*S*H. She died of cancer at her home in Passadena on February 16 .
Iconic country music legend Kenny Rogers was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013 and charted more than 120 hit singles across various music genres .
He sold more than 100 million records worldwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best-selling music artists of all time .
He died at the age of 81 on March 20 of natural causes in his home in Sandy Springs .
Legendary Hollywood actor Kirk Douglas , whose career spanned more than 60 years , passed away at the age of 103 on February 3 .
The star gained critical acclaim for his role in the 1960 classic Spartacus .
Kirk had a long and celebrated career , racking up an incredible 92 acting credits across 75 movies .
NBA legend Kobe Bryant tragically died at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in helicopter crash in Calabasas in California .
Sadly , Kobe 's 13-year-old daughter was also a passenger and died alongside her father .
The emergency services were quick to the scene but none of the nine passengers on board survived .
Kobe was one of the greatest basketballers of his time and devoted an entire 20-season career to the Los Angeles Lakers .
At the peak of his career , Kobe won 5 National Basketball Association ( NBA ) titles and took the crown at the All Star championships 18 times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the age of 21 on January 1 .
She gained following for rapping over songs such as Meek Mill ’ s Cold Hearted and Drake ’ s Girls Love Beyonce .
Lexii broke into the Billboard Hot 100 with her collaboration with American singer Kehlani Parrish , and released her first full length album Super Sweet 16 on her birthday .
American actor Lyle Waggoner died at the age of 84 on March 17 after an illness .
He was best known for his roles in a number of TV shows and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including The Carol Burnett Show and Wonder Woman .
Lyle was a major heartthrob and became the first male semi-nude centrefold for Playgirl magazine in 1973 .
Film and TV director Lynn Shelton died at the age of 54 on May 15 after a battle with a blood disorder .
She was the director of Netflix ’ s GLOW , and recently she had directed four episodes of the Hulu series Little Fires Everywhere .
Margaret Nolan died aged 76 on October 5 after a battle with cancer .
She was known as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most recognised as a Bond Girl in Goldfinger and A Hard Day 's Night .
Margaret also appeared in six Carry On films and kept acting until her death .
Actress Mary Pat Gleason died aged 70 on June 2 following a battle with cancer .
She was best known for appearing in the US sitcom Mom , and the 2004 teen film A Cinderella Story .
Other titles includes Will & Grace , How to Get Away With Murder , Grey ’ s Anatomy , Scandal , 2 Broke Girls and Desperate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the age of 90 at his home in France on March 8 .
The actor had a wide and varied career , but one of his most recognisable roles in recent history was the Three-Eyed Raven in Game of Thrones .
He also starred in Star Wars : The Force Awakens , Shutter Island , Flash Gordon and The Exorcist .
Michael Angelis , known best as the narrator of Thomas The Tank Engine series Thomas And Friends , died at the age of 76 on May 30 .
He also appeared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pet .
The actor appeared in 13 series of Thomas The Tank Engine , taking over from Ringo Starr in 1991 .
French actor and film director Michel Piccolo died aged 94 on May 12 .
The legendary star was renowned for his roles in seminal New Wave films Le Mépris , Contempt and Belle De Jour .
The Parisian star rose to fame after working with a string of legendary French directors , including Luis Bunuel , Jean-Luc Godard and Louis Malle .
African singer Mory Kante died at the age of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 1987 hit song Yéké yéké reached the number one spot in European countries such as Belgium , Finland , the Netherlands , and Spain .
The accompanying album , Akwaba Beach , soon became the best-selling African record of its time .
She was declared missing after she and her young son Josey rented a boat at Lake Piru in California .
Josey was found alone and asleep on the boat with his life jacket on and he told investigators they had been swimming .
Sadly , after Naya had helped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boat , she was unable to pull herself back up .
Her cause of death was recorded as accidental drowning .
Drummer of the rock band Rush , Neil Peart passed away at the age of 67 on January 7 .
He was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017 .
Neil had retired from Rush and professional drumming in 2015 , after reportedly suffering from arthritis .
Nicholas Parsons hosted the Radio 4 comedy game show Just A Minute from its inception in December 1967 .
He passed away on January 28 following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 96 .
Parsons had a long and successful TV and radio career , and was still active into his 90s .
Nikita Pearl died at the age of 15 from a brain tumour on February 15 .
She was awaiting another surgery to remove a reoccurring cancerous tumour .
The young girl starred in the Disney film Queen of Katwe , about a chess prodigy from a Ugandan slum .
At the time of her death she was a senior three student at Gayaza High School .
Italy football legend Paolo Rossi passed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dec 9 .
Rossi was a key member of the Italy side which brought the country to its third World Cup win in 1982 .
He scored six goals , including a hat-trick against Brazil in a 3-2 win .
The forward is widely regarded as one of the best footballers Italy has seen , and won the Golden Ball and Ballon d ’ Or in 1982 .
He starred in the group alongside Stevie Nicks , Lindsey Buckingham , John McVie , Christine McVie , Danny Kirwan and Jeremy Spencer .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to struggling with his mental health .
Former BBC radio presenter Peter Hobday died at the age of 82 on January 18 .
The former Today show presenter was a regular on the show for 14 years , but was controversially dismissed from the popular Radio four programme .
Following an outcry from fans , the BBC were forced to deny claims he was let go because of his age .
American rapper Pop Smoke was died aged just 20 on February 19 .
The star was shot twice during a home invasion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , born Bashar Barakah Jackson , released his second mixtape Meet the Woo 2 before his death in February .
It earned him his first top 1- single on the Billboard charts .
Raphael Coleman , who starred in Nanny McPhee , died at the age of 25 on February 7 .
The child actor ’ s stepfather confirmed he had died after collapsing during a jog .
Raphael was best known for playing a little boy called Eric , alongside Emma Thompson in the 2005 version of Nanny McPhee .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world alone , and went on to become a biologist .
He spent a year in the jungle of Costa Rica , and six months in Indonesia , where he qualified for a certificate as a diver .
Raphael was also an active member of Extinction Rebellion .
Actor Richard Herd died on May 26 at the age of 87 in Los Angeles .
He had countless roles in TV and film since the start of his career including in All the President ’ s Men , Get Out and The China Syndrome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was a former World Tag Team Champion and was also inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame .
The wrestling legend had a remarkable career which saw him dominate the WWE world during the 1980s .
Rosalind Knight died on December 19 at the age of 87 .
The actress was best known for starring in the Channel 4 series Friday Night Dinner and in the early Carry On films .
Comedian , actor and presenter Roy Hudd passed away at the age of 83 on March 15 .
He appeared in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years , including Dennis Potter series Lipstick on Your Collar .
He eventually moved into soaps , and made his first appearance in Coronation Street in 2002 as undertaker Archie .
Bergerac actor Sean Arnold died at the age of 79 on April 15 after having a long-term illness .
He ’ s best known for playing Superintendent Barney Crozier in detective drama Bergerac , which was on air in the 80s .
He also played headmaster Mr Llewellyn in Grange Hill during the 70s and 80s Sean Connery died aged 90 on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sleep after being ill for some time .
The Scottish actor became known for being the first to play James Bond on film , appearing as the secret agent in seven films .
He also appeared in The Untouchables , for which he won an Oscar , Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and The Rock .
Actress Shirley Knight died on April 22 from natural causes at the age of 83 .
She was nominated for two Oscars during the early stages of her career , before going on to land several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Recently she received several Emmy nominations for her role as Phyllis Van de Kamp in Desperate Housewives .
Silvio Horta , the creator of the US sitcom Ugly Betty , died at the age of 45 on January 7 .
Horta worked on Ugly Betty for all four seasons from 2006 to 2010 .
Stan Kirsch , Hollywood star who is best known for playing Richie Ryan in Highlander , died at the age of 51 on January 11 .
Kirsch , who had a cameo in Friends as Monica ’ s love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife .
BBC Radio Ulster presenter Stephen Clements died at the age of 47 on January 7 .
The broadcaster had presented the mid-morning Stephen Clements show since September 2019 .
The father-of-two had started his radio presenting career on Citybeat , and then hosted Q Radio ’ s Breakfast show for seven years .
American actor Stuart Whitman died at the age of 92 after a battle with skin cancer on March 16 .
The Oscar-nominated actor enjoyed fame in Hollywood Westerns around the 60s , 70s and 80s .
Whitman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and received an Oscar nomination for his role in 1961 ’ s The Mark .
Monty Python star Terry jones died at the age of 77 on January 21 .
He was diagnosed with dementia in 2015 .
After Monty Python , he worked on a variety of other projects , including the TV series Ripping Yarns with Michael Palin .
Goodies star Tim Brooke-Taylor died at the age of 79 from coronavirus on April 12 .
The actor was also famous for playing Ronnie Smethers in Heartbeat between 2005 and 2009 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Graham Parsons in the BBC medical drama Doctors in 2005 .
Presenter of ITV ’ s regional news programme in the North West of England , Tony Morris died at the age of 57 after being diagnosed with kidney cancer last year .
He died on August 1 at Bury Hospice , with his daughters Natalie and Rebecca by his side .
He presented Grenade Reports for 17 years and was active on the show until just a few weeks before his death .
Actor Tony Scannell died at the age of 75 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known for playing DS Ted Roach on The Bill for nine years .
The Irish actor also starred in Flash Gordon , Evil Never Died and Waking The Dead .
Actor Vincent Marzello died on March 31 at the age of 68 .
The actor was born and raised in Brooklyn , New York , and has starred in a number of TV series and movies .
He was best known for starring in the 1990s film The Witches and The Spy Who Loved Me in 1977 .
He passed away at his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in intensive care .
He is best known for his roles in the likes of The Thing and Cocoon , he had a long career starting back in the 1960s , and his most recent credit was in Timber the Treasure Dog as Hawk Jones .

We've taken a look back at the stars that have sadly passed away this year:
Abby Dalton
American actress Abby Dalton died on November 21 aged 88 after suffering from a long-term illness.
The actress is best known for her role as winery heiress Julia Cumson on the CBS soap Falcon Crest.
She also starred in sitcoms such as Hennesey and The Joey Bishop Show.
Her role as Martha Hale in Hennesey landed her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1961.
Adam Schlesinger
(Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)
The singer-songwriter died from the coronavirus on April 1, aged 52.
Founding member of Fountains of Wayne, Adam Schlesinger co-wrote the iconic Stacy’s Mom with Fountains of Wayne lead singer Chris Collingwood.
He was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe Award for writing the title track of the Tom Hanks-directed film That Thing You Do! as well as two other songs for the movie.
Alan Harris
Star Wars actor Alan Harris died aged 81 on January 25.
He appeared in all three original films as different characters but is best known for his role as bounty hunter Bossk in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.
He also played the role of a Stormtrooper in the original trilogy.
Harris died following a battle with lung cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2018.
Alan Merrill
Songwriter Alan Merrill died on March 29 from coronavirus aged 69.
He was best known for writing Joan Jett’s I Love Rock ’N’ Roll.
In the early 1970s, Merrill was one of the first westerners to achieve pop star status in Japan.
Andrew Weatherall
(Prescription PR/PA)
English musician, DJ, songwriter, producer and remixer Andrew Weatherall died on February 17 aged 56.
He was one of the key DJs in the acid house movement of the late 1980s.
Archie Lyndhurst
Archie Lyndhurst, actor and son of Only Fools and Horses star Nicholas Lyndhurst, died aged 19 on September 22.
The teenager died after a "short illness" and was found at his family home in Fulham.
Emergency services had been called "to a report of a concern for welfare" and Archie was declared dead at the scene.
It was treated as "unexplained but not suspicious" and was not investigated further by police.
Dame Barbara Windsor
(Ian West/PA)
National treasure Dame Barbara Windsor passed away at a London care home on December 10, aged 83, after an ongoing battle with Alzheimer’s.
The iconic actress is best-known for playing Peggy Mitchell in Eastenders and for her role in the Carry On films.
Bob Kulick
Robert Joel Kulick was a Grammy award winning American guitarist and record producer, who worked with numerous acts such as Kiss, W.A.S.P., Meat Loaf and Michael Bolton.
He died aged 70 on May 28.
Bobbie Battista
Journalist and CNN Headline News anchor Bobbie Battista died at the age of 67 on March 3.
Her family confirmed she died after a four-year long battle with cervical cancer.
The American journalist was one of the original CNN Headline News anchors when the network launched in 1981.
Bobby Ball
Bobby Ball and Tommy Cannon Outside the Dominion Theatre, London (PA)
Comedian Bobby Ball died aged 76 on October 28 after testing positive for Covid-19.
Best known as one half of the comedy double act Cannon and Ball, Bobby also starred in the 2005 series of I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
He continued working the comedy circuit until shortly before his death, and his sons even said he was laughing and joking with nurses in hospital.
Brian Dennehy
(Matt Peyton/PA)
Brian Dennehy died at the age of 81 on April 15.
The legendary American actor began his incredible career in the 1970s with guest roles on TV shows like Kojak, M*A*S*H, Lou Grant and Dallas.
In 1981 he landed a recurring role on the popular soap Dynasty.
But his huge movie break came in 1982 when he starred in Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo:First Blood.
Buck Henry
Film writer Buck Henry passed away of a heart attack at the age of 89 in Los Angeles on January 8.
He received an Oscar nomination for The Graduate, and also co-wrote the screwball masterpiece What’s Up, Doc? in 1972.
He later wrote Gus Van Sant’s black Comedy To Die For, starring Nicole Kidman.
Carol Sutton
Actress Carol Sutton died on December 10 at the age of 76 in New Orleans after a battle with the coronavirus.
She appeared in more than 100 movies but is best known for her roles in Steel Magnolias, Ray and Monster’s Ball.
Caroline Flack
(Ian West/PA)
TV and radio presenter Caroline Flack sadly passed away on February 15 aged 40.
The enigmatic star began her career as an actress, starring in Bo' Selecta! and presented various ITV2 shows including I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! NOW! and The Xtra Factor.
She won the twelfth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 and the following year she began presenting The X Factor – replacing the long-standing presenter Dermot O'Leary.
She also presented the hit TV show Love Island between 2015 to 2019.
Chadwick Boseman
(Ian West/PA)
Actor and playwright Chadwick Boseman died on August 28 aged 43, after being diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016.
Boseman played superhero T’Challa in the 2018 Marvel blockbuster, Black Panther.
Despite being diagnosed with cancer, he went on to star in a range of films, such as Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.
He also starred in other films such as Marshall and Da 5 Bloods.
Chris Trousdale
Dream Street singer Chris Trousdale died at the age of 34 on June 2 after contracting coronavirus.
He joined the band in 1999 when he was 14, and they shot to global fame after their debut album Dream Street.
Christopher Beeny
Last of the Summer Wine star Christopher Beeny dead aged 78 on January 3.
The British actor made his TV breakthrough in the BBC series The Grove Family in the 1950s.
He also appeared as Geoffrey in the single mother sitcom Miss Jones and Son in 1977.
Chynna Rogers
Rapper Chynna Rogers died at the age of 25 from a drug overdose on April 8, according to police.
She started her career aged 14 after signing to Ford Models.
After becoming involved with the A$AP Mob, she started her career as a budding rapper.
Dame Vera Lynn
Being invested a Dame Commander of the British Empire at Buckingham Palace in 1975 (PA)
National treasure Dame Vera Lynn passed away at the age of 103 on June 18.
Widely referred to as the "Forces' Sweetheart" she gave outdoor concerts for troops in Egypt, India and Burma during the war as part of Entertainments National Service Association.
She is best known for her songs ‘We’ll Meet Again’, ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ and ‘There’ll Always Be an England’.
David Prowse
Dave Prowse signing autographs at the London Film and Comic Con at Earls Court, London, in 2013 (Sean Dempsey/PA)
David Prowse MBE was a bodybuilder, weightlifter and actor, best known for physically portraying Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy and a manservant in Stanley Kubrick's 1971 film A Clockwork Orange.
Other roles that Dave starred in during his lengthy career was Doctor Who in 1972, The Kenneth Williams Show, The Morecambe & Wise Show and The Two Ronnies.
David Roback
David Roback, co-founder of The Mazzy Star died at the age of 61 on February 25.
The producer, guitarist and keyboardist formed the band alongside Hope Sandoval and played a lead role in the net-psychedelic movement in the 1980s and 1990s.
Dean West
Rapper, Black The Ripper, whose real name was Dean West, died at the age of 32 on April 6.
After an autopsy his family confirmed that his death was due to a heart attack, he was buried at Edmonton Cemetery.
He came to fame in the early noughties with his mixtape including Holla Black and Afro Samurai.
Denise Johnson
Primal Scream singer Denise Johnson passed away on July 27 aged 54.
She was best known for singing on the Primal Scream album Screamadelica, performing with the groups throughout the 1990s.
She joined the soul group Fifth of Heaven in the late 1980s, before being introduced to Primal Scream.
Derek Acorah
(Ian West/PA)
Derek Acorah died from pneumonia at the age of 69 on January 3.
Derek, who was best known for appearing on Most Haunted, had been taken to hospital for sepsis.
He shot to fame alongside Yvette Fielding, and went on to present Derek Acorah’s Ghost Towers. He also featured in Michael Jackson: The Search for HIs Spirit in 2009.
Derek Fowlds
Derek Fowlds (Michael Crabtree/PA)
Actor Derek Fowlds was best known for his TV appearances including The Basil Brush Show, Yes Minister and Heartbeat which he starred in for 18 years.
He died at Royal United Hospitals Bath in the early hours of Friday morning on January 17 at the age of 82.
Des O'Connor
(Myung Jung Kim/PA)
Des O’Connor CBE died on November 14 aged 88.
The comedian, actor and television presenter formerly hosted Countdown and entertained the nation for more than 60 years on screen.
His chat show series, Des O’Connor Tonight, ran for several decades on both BBC and ITV.
Diana Rigg
The Game of Thrones and Avengers star died at the age of 82 on September 10.
Rigg became a Bond Girl in 1969 portraying Teresa Draco in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
She won a number of awards, including a BAFTA, Tony and Emmy.
Diego Maradona
(Alessandra Tarantino/AP)
Legendary Diego Maradona died on November 25 aged 60 after suffering cardiac arrest.
The Argentinian football star famously captained his national team to victory in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
This is where he scored his infamous “Hand of God” goal during the quarter-final match against England.
Ebow Graham
Foreign Beggars star Ebow “Metropolis” Graham died aged 41 on April 19.
He was a founding member of the hip-hop electronic crossover group Foreign Beggars.
The group first performed in London in 2002, and quickly became one of the UK’s most prominent underground hip-hop groups.
They went on to release electronic dance music records, including United Colours of Beggattron.
Edd Byrnes
Edd Byrnes was best known for his role as dance-show host Vince Fontaine in Grease, where he hosted the National Bandstand.
He passed away on January 8, aged 87.
Eddie Van Halen
(Greg Allen/Invision/AP, File)
Eddie Van Halen was the main songwriter and guitarist of the American rock band Van Halen.
He died of a stroke at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California on October 6, aged 65.
Fred Willard
Actor Fred Willard died aged 83 on May 15, he appeared in a number of hit shows including Everybody Loves Raymond and Modern Family.
He also starred in the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, and box office hits such as Anchorman and WALL-E.
Gene Reynolds
TV director Gene Reynolds passed away on Monday, February 3 at the age of 96 on February 3.
He was best known for co-creating the TV series M*A*S*H, which ran for 11 years, alongside Larry Gelbart.
Gene was awarded three Emmys for the much-loved Show and was also awarded the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Direction of a Drama Series once for his work on Lou Grant.
Geno Silva
Geno Silva was an American actor best known for his role as The Skull in Alejandro Sosa's silent hitman in Scarface.
He also appeared in films such as 1941, Tequila Sunrise, The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Amistad.
Silva died at his home in Los Angeles of complications from frontotemporal degeneration, a form of dementia.
George Mikell
The Great Escape actor George Mikell died aged 91 of natural causes on May 12.
His first major role was playing an SS officer named Sessler in the 1961 hit The Guns of Nazarone.
In 1963 he played another SS officer in The Great Escape, alongside Steve McQueen.
Harry Hains
Actor Harry Hains died on January 7 at the age of 27, he was best known for starring in American Horror Story.
His mother, Jane Badler, announced the news, saying he had “struggled with mental illness and addiction”
She said: “A brilliant spark shone bright too short a time.”
Hilary Heath
Liverpool born Hilary Heath was best known for her acting role in Wuthering Heights.
She died on April 3 from coronavirus complications at the age of 74.
After retiring from acting, she produced Mike Newell's An Awfully Big Adventure, which starred Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman.
Sir Ian Holm
(William Conran/PA)
Famous for playing Bilbo Baggins, Ian Holm CBE died after a battle with Parkinson’s disease on June 19 aged 88.
His other notable roles include portraying athletics coach Sam Mussabini in the 1981 film Chariots of Fire – a portrayal which bagged him a Bafta and an Oscar nod.
He also played priest Vito Cornelius in The Fifth Element and lawyer Mitchell Stephens in The Sweet Hereafter.
Most recently, he played the older Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.
Irrfan Khan
Irrfan Khan was an Indian actor who worked in Hindi cinema as well as British and American films.
He passed away on April 19 aged 53.
He is best remembered in the West for his roles in hit films Slumdog Millionaire and Life Of Pi.
Jack Kehoe
Hollywood actor Jack Kehoe died at the age of 85 on January 14, five years after he suffered a debilitating stroke.
He was best known for his role in the Oscar-winning film The Sting. He also played the role of “Erie Kid”, and stars alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford.
During his 50-year career he has starred alongside legends such as Al Pacino in the hit film, Serpico.
Jackie Stallone
(Steve Parsons/PA)
Sylvester Stallone's mum and Celebrity Big Brother icon Jackie Stallone died in her sleep on September 21 aged 98.
During her life Jackie had a varied career, appearing on the 1980s wrestling show GLOW: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling before publishing astrology books and setting up a psychic hotline in the 1990s.
Jacqueline Scott
Actress Jacqueline Scott died aged 89 on July 23.
Jacqueline was famous for playing the sister of David Janssen's man on the run in The Fugitive and the wife of Walter Matthau's bank robber in Charley Varrick.
Jason Davis
Jason Davis, who voiced the character of Michael “Mikey” Blumberg on the hit animated series Recess died on February 16 at the age of 35 from an accidental Fentanyl overdose.
The voice actor also appeared on the fourth season of VH1 show Celebrity Rehab with Dr Drew in 2010.
Davis had recently been admitted to the Cure Addiction Now charity, that he co-founded.
Jeremy Bulloch
(Jonathan Brady/PA)
Actor Jeremy Bulloch died on December 17, aged 75 after battling with Parkinson’s disease.
The actor was best known for playing Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Jeremy also starred in a number of other films, including Summer Holiday and James Bond.
He also starred in TV series such as Newcomers, Doctor Who, Agony and Robin of Sherwood, as well as several West End theatre productions.
Jill Gascoine
Actress Jill Gascoine died at the age of 83 on April 29 after living with Alzheimer’s for 10 years.
She was Detective Inspector Maggie Forbes in the 1980s television series The Gentle Touch and its spin-off series C.A.T.S. Eyes. In the 1990s, she also became a novelist and published three books.
Jimmy Cobb
Wilbur James Cobb, was an American jazz drummer who died in Manhattan on May 24, aged 91.
He was part of Miles Davis's First Great Sextet. At the time of his death, he had been the band's last surviving member for nearly thirty years.
Joe Diffie
Country music singer and songwriter, Joe Diffie rose to fame in the mid 1980s and signed with Epic Records in 1990.
Some of his best known songs include ‘Home’, ‘The the Devil Danced’ and ‘Third Rock from the Sun’.
He died in Nashville on March 29 at the age of 61 from coronavirus.
Joey Image
Punk rock drummer Joey Image joined Misfits in 1978 and was the drummer for both the "Horror Business" and "Night of the Living Dead" sessions of 1979.
In 2016 he was diagnosed with liver cancer and died on June 1 at the age of 63.
John Karlen
Actor John Karlen played multiple roles on the ABC serial Dark Shadows from 1967 to 1971.
He passed away from congestive heart failure at a hospice in California on January 22 at the age of 86.
John Shrapnel
Best known for his stage work with the RSC and National Theatre, John Shrapnel passed away on Valentine’s Day at the age of 77.
Kellye Nakahara
Kellye Nakahara was an American actress, best known for playing Nurse Kealani Kellye in 167 episodes of the television comedy M*A*S*H.
She died of cancer at her home in Passadena on February 16.
Kenny Rogers
(Yui Mok/PA)
Iconic country music legend Kenny Rogers was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013 and charted more than 120 hit singles across various music genres.
He sold more than 100 million records worldwide during his lifetime making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
He died at the age of 81 on March 20 of natural causes in his home in Sandy Springs.
Kirk Douglas
(Yui Mok/PA)
Legendary Hollywood actor Kirk Douglas, whose career spanned more than 60 years, passed away at the age of 103 on February 3.
The star gained critical acclaim for his role in the 1960 classic Spartacus.
Kirk had a long and celebrated career, racking up an incredible 92 acting credits across 75 movies.
Kobe Bryant
(Martin Rickett/PA)
NBA legend Kobe Bryant tragically died at the age of 41 on January 26, in helicopter crash in Calabasas in California.
Sadly, Kobe's 13-year-old daughter was also a passenger and died alongside her father.
The emergency services were quick to the scene but none of the nine passengers on board survived.
Kobe was one of the greatest basketballers of his time and devoted an entire 20-season career to the Los Angeles Lakers.
At the peak of his career, Kobe won 5 National Basketball Association (NBA) titles and took the crown at the All Star championships 18 times.
Lexii Alijai
Upcoming rap sensation Lexii Alijai died at the age of 21 on January 1.
She gained following for rapping over songs such as Meek Mill’s Cold Hearted and Drake’s Girls Love Beyonce.
Lexii broke into the Billboard Hot 100 with her collaboration with American singer Kehlani Parrish, and released her first full length album Super Sweet 16 on her birthday.
Lyle Waggoner
American actor Lyle Waggoner died at the age of 84 on March 17 after an illness.
He was best known for his roles in a number of TV shows and movies in the 1960s and 1970s, including The Carol Burnett Show and Wonder Woman.
Lyle was a major heartthrob and became the first male semi-nude centrefold for Playgirl magazine in 1973.
Lynn Shelton
Film and TV director Lynn Shelton died at the age of 54 on May 15 after a battle with a blood disorder.
She was the director of Netflix’s GLOW, and recently she had directed four episodes of the Hulu series Little Fires Everywhere.
Margaret Nolan
(PA)
Margaret Nolan died aged 76 on October 5 after a battle with cancer.
She was known as an actress and glamour model but was most recognised as a Bond Girl in Goldfinger and A Hard Day's Night.
Margaret also appeared in six Carry On films and kept acting until her death.
Mary Pat Gleason
Actress Mary Pat Gleason died aged 70 on June 2 following a battle with cancer.
She was best known for appearing in the US sitcom Mom, and the 2004 teen film A Cinderella Story.
Other titles includes Will & Grace, How to Get Away With Murder, Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, 2 Broke Girls and Desperate Housewives.
Max von Sydow
Actor Max von Sydow died at the age of 90 at his home in France on March 8.
The actor had a wide and varied career, but one of his most recognisable roles in recent history was the Three-Eyed Raven in Game of Thrones.
He also starred in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Shutter Island, Flash Gordon and The Exorcist.
Michael Angelis
Michael Angelis, known best as the narrator of Thomas The Tank Engine series Thomas And Friends, died at the age of 76 on May 30.
He also appeared on the popular show Auf Wiedersehen, Pet.
The actor appeared in 13 series of Thomas The Tank Engine, taking over from Ringo Starr in 1991.
Michel Piccolo
French actor and film director Michel Piccolo died aged 94 on May 12.
The legendary star was renowned for his roles in seminal New Wave films Le Mépris, Contempt and Belle De Jour.
The Parisian star rose to fame after working with a string of legendary French directors, including Luis Bunuel, Jean-Luc Godard and Louis Malle.
Mory Kante
African singer Mory Kante died at the age of 70 on May 22.
The musician’s 1987 hit song Yéké yéké reached the number one spot in European countries such as Belgium, Finland, the Netherlands, and Spain.
The accompanying album, Akwaba Beach, soon became the best-selling African record of its time.
Naya Rivera
(AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File)
Glee star Naya Rivera died in a tragic accident on July 8, aged 33.
She was declared missing after she and her young son Josey rented a boat at Lake Piru in California.
Josey was found alone and asleep on the boat with his life jacket on and he told investigators they had been swimming.
Sadly, after Naya had helped her boy to get back on the boat, she was unable to pull herself back up.
Her cause of death was recorded as accidental drowning.
Neil Peart
Drummer of the rock band Rush, Neil Peart passed away at the age of 67 on January 7.
He was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017.
Neil had retired from Rush and professional drumming in 2015, after reportedly suffering from arthritis.
Nicholas Parsons
(Dominic Lipinski/PA)
Nicholas Parsons hosted the Radio 4 comedy game show Just A Minute from its inception in December 1967.
He passed away on January 28 following a short illness at the age of 96.
Parsons had a long and successful TV and radio career, and was still active into his 90s.
Nikita Pearl
Nikita Pearl died at the age of 15 from a brain tumour on February 15.
She was awaiting another surgery to remove a reoccurring cancerous tumour.
The young girl starred in the Disney film Queen of Katwe, about a chess prodigy from a Ugandan slum.
At the time of her death she was a senior three student at Gayaza High School.
Paolo Rossi
(AP)
Italy football legend Paolo Rossi passed away at the age of 64 on Dec 9.
Rossi was a key member of the Italy side which brought the country to its third World Cup win in 1982.
He scored six goals, including a hat-trick against Brazil in a 3-2 win.
The forward is widely regarded as one of the best footballers Italy has seen, and won the Golden Ball and Ballon d’Or in 1982.
Peter Green
Co-founder of Fleetwood Mac, Peter Green died aged 73 on July 25.
He starred in the group alongside Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, John McVie, Christine McVie, Danny Kirwan and Jeremy Spencer.
He left the band in the 1970s due to struggling with his mental health.
Peter Hobday
Former BBC radio presenter Peter Hobday died at the age of 82 on January 18.
The former Today show presenter was a regular on the show for 14 years, but was controversially dismissed from the popular Radio four programme.
Following an outcry from fans, the BBC were forced to deny claims he was let go because of his age.
Pop Smoke
Pop Smoke (Tracy Awino/Republic Records/AP)
American rapper Pop Smoke was died aged just 20 on February 19.
The star was shot twice during a home invasion in the Hollywood Hills.
Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, released his second mixtape Meet the Woo 2 before his death in February. It earned him his first top 1- single on the Billboard charts.
Raphael Coleman
Raphael Coleman, who starred in Nanny McPhee, died at the age of 25 on February 7.
The child actor’s stepfather confirmed he had died after collapsing during a jog.
Raphael was best known for playing a little boy called Eric, alongside Emma Thompson in the 2005 version of Nanny McPhee.
At the age of 18 Raphael travelled around the world alone, and went on to become a biologist.
He spent a year in the jungle of Costa Rica, and six months in Indonesia, where he qualified for a certificate as a diver.
Raphael was also an active member of Extinction Rebellion.
Richard Herd
Actor Richard Herd died on May 26 at the age of 87 in Los Angeles.
He had countless roles in TV and film since the start of his career including in All the President’s Men, Get Out and The China Syndrome.
Rocky Johnson
Rocky Johnson, father of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, died aged 75 on January 15.
Also known as Soul Man, he was a former World Tag Team Champion and was also inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
The wrestling legend had a remarkable career which saw him dominate the WWE world during the 1980s.
Rosalind Knight
(Simon Annand)
Rosalind Knight died on December 19 at the age of 87.
The actress was best known for starring in the Channel 4 series Friday Night Dinner and in the early Carry On films.
Roy Hudd
Roy Hudd played Archie Shuttleworth in Coronation Street (Anna Gowthorpe/PA)
Comedian, actor and presenter Roy Hudd passed away at the age of 83 on March 15.
He appeared in a number of TV shows over the years, including Dennis Potter series Lipstick on Your Collar.
He eventually moved into soaps, and made his first appearance in Coronation Street in 2002 as undertaker Archie.
Sean Arnold
Bergerac actor Sean Arnold died at the age of 79 on April 15 after having a long-term illness.
He’s best known for playing Superintendent Barney Crozier in detective drama Bergerac, which was on air in the 80s.
He also played headmaster Mr Llewellyn in Grange Hill during the 70s and 80s
Sean Connery
Sir Sean Connery (PA)
Sean Connery died aged 90 on October 31, passing away in his sleep after being ill for some time.
The Scottish actor became known for being the first to play James Bond on film, appearing as the secret agent in seven films.
He also appeared in The Untouchables, for which he won an Oscar, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and The Rock.
Shirley Knight
Actress Shirley Knight died on April 22 from natural causes at the age of 83.
She was nominated for two Oscars during the early stages of her career, before going on to land several film, TV and stage roles.
Recently she received several Emmy nominations for her role as Phyllis Van de Kamp in Desperate Housewives.
Silvio Horta
Silvio Horta, the creator of the US sitcom Ugly Betty, died at the age of 45 on January 7.
Horta worked on Ugly Betty for all four seasons from 2006 to 2010.
Stan Kirsch
Stan Kirsch, Hollywood star who is best known for playing Richie Ryan in Highlander, died at the age of 51 on January 11.
Kirsch, who had a cameo in Friends as Monica’s love interest Ethan, was found dead by his wife.
Stephen Clements
(BBC/PA)
BBC Radio Ulster presenter Stephen Clements died at the age of 47 on January 7.
The broadcaster had presented the mid-morning Stephen Clements show since September 2019.
The father-of-two had started his radio presenting career on Citybeat, and then hosted Q Radio’s Breakfast show for seven years.
Stuart Whitman
American actor Stuart Whitman died at the age of 92 after a battle with skin cancer on March 16.
The Oscar-nominated actor enjoyed fame in Hollywood Westerns around the 60s, 70s and 80s.
Whitman had 150 film credits to his name, and received an Oscar nomination for his role in 1961’s The Mark.
Terry Jones
(Jonathan Brady/PA)
Monty Python star Terry jones died at the age of 77 on January 21.
He was diagnosed with dementia in 2015.
After Monty Python, he worked on a variety of other projects, including the TV series Ripping Yarns with Michael Palin.
Tim Brooke-Taylor
Goodies star Tim Brooke-Taylor died in April (John Stillwell/PA)
Goodies star Tim Brooke-Taylor died at the age of 79 from coronavirus on April 12.
The actor was also famous for playing Ronnie Smethers in Heartbeat between 2005 and 2009.
He also portrayed the role of Graham Parsons in the BBC medical drama Doctors in 2005.
Tony Morris
Presenter of ITV’s regional news programme in the North West of England, Tony Morris died at the age of 57 after being diagnosed with kidney cancer last year.
He died on August 1 at Bury Hospice, with his daughters Natalie and Rebecca by his side.
He presented Grenade Reports for 17 years and was active on the show until just a few weeks before his death.
Tony Scannell
Actor Tony Scannell died at the age of 75 on May 27.
Tony was best known for playing DS Ted Roach on The Bill for nine years.
The Irish actor also starred in Flash Gordon, Evil Never Died and Waking The Dead.
Vincent Marzello
Actor Vincent Marzello died on March 31 at the age of 68.
The actor was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and has starred in a number of TV series and movies.
He was best known for starring in the 1990s film The Witches and The Spy Who Loved Me in 1977.
Wilfred Brimley
American actor Wilfred Brimley died aged 85 on August 2.
He passed away at his home in Utah after a short stay in intensive care.
He is best known for his roles in the likes of The Thing and Cocoon, he had a long career starting back in the 1960s, and his most recent credit was in Timber the Treasure Dog as Hawk Jones.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Pond plan for house at Summer Lane, Exbury, withdrawn

PLANS to create a wildlife pond in the New Forest National Park have been withdrawn by the applicant .
The @ @ @ @ @ NPA ) is no longer studying an application relating to a site near Summer Cottage @ @ @ @ @ .
An objection had been lodged by the NPA 's landscape officer .
The officer @ @ @ @ @ nature of the pond - gravel edges with stone holding down the liner - is @ @ @ @ @ domestic setting than an open field .
`` The depth of the proposed pond at @ @ @ @ @ than typical small water bodies in the New Forest .
`` I would be concerned @ @ @ @ @ falling in and not being able to get out . ''

The Lymington-based National Park Authority (NPA) is no longer studying an application relating to a site near Summer Cottage in Summer Lane, Exbury.
An objection had been lodged by the NPA's landscape officer.
The officer said: "The lined nature of the pond - gravel edges with stone holding down the liner - is much more suited to a domestic setting than an open field.
"The depth of the proposed pond at 1.4 metres is much deeper than typical small water
bodies in the New Forest.
"I would be concerned about deer and other wildlife falling in and not being able to get out."


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Hampshire police could receive extra cash totalling £21m

HAMPSHIRE and Isle of Wight police could receive a windfall of more than £20m in the next financial year .
The government is increasing its funding for police forces across the country to more than £15bn in 2021-22 - up by £636m from this year .
Hampshire and the Isle of Wight police could receive an extra payment of up to £21m as part of the proposed settlement .
The cash will be used to increase police officer numbers and keep communities safe .
Home Secretary Priti Patel has announced that a huge chunk of the £636m - more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20,000 extra police officers by 2023 .
The funding will be also be used to bolster counter-terrorism policing .
A Hampshire police spokesperson said : `` We welcome the fact that the next wave of 20,000 extra police officers nationwide is being funded .
`` This allows us to keep the tap on in terms of boosting police officer ranks over the next year .
`` Investment in areas such as new technology , proactive work to tackle serious violence , and the wellbeing of officers and staff are also important as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jones , Tory candidate for the post of Hampshire 's Police and Crime Commissioner ( PCC ) said : “ £21m is a huge shot in the arm for policing .
“ All the surveys I have done point to the visibility of the police on the street being the number one concern for local residents .
This extra cash will mean more officers and more crimes being solved and prevented.
” Hampshire 's current PCC is Michael Lane , who has held the post since 2016 .
A spokesperson for Mr Lane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcome news as it will allow the Constabulary to continue their ambitious officer recruitment programme and support the work of the Commissioner .
`` However , the total funding increase will depend on the amount raised through the policing precept element of the council tax .
`` The Commissioner has launched his annual budget survey and is encouraging all residents to have their say before a decision is made . ''

The government is increasing its funding for police forces across the country to more than £15bn in 2021-22 - up by £636m from this year.
Hampshire and the Isle of Wight police could receive an extra payment of up to £21m as part of the proposed settlement.
The cash will be used to increase police officer numbers and keep communities safe.
Home Secretary Priti Patel has announced that a huge chunk of the £636m - more than £400m - would be used to recruit 20,000 extra police officers by 2023.
The funding will be also be used to bolster counter-terrorism policing.
A Hampshire police spokesperson said: "We welcome the fact that the next wave of 20,000 extra police officers nationwide is being funded.
"This allows us to keep the tap on in terms of boosting police officer ranks over the next year.
"Investment in areas such as new technology, proactive work to tackle serious violence, and the wellbeing of officers and staff are also important as we take the fight to criminals.”
Donna Jones, Tory candidate for the post of Hampshire's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) said: “£21m is a huge shot in the arm for policing.
“All the surveys I have done point to the visibility of the police on the street being the number one concern for local residents. This extra cash will mean more officers and more crimes being solved and prevented.”
Hampshire's current PCC is Michael Lane, who has held the post since 2016.
A spokesperson for Mr Lane said: "The extra funding is welcome news as it will allow the Constabulary to continue their ambitious officer recruitment programme and support the work of the Commissioner.
"However, the total funding increase will depend on the amount raised through the policing precept element of the council tax.
"The Commissioner has launched his annual budget survey and is encouraging all residents to have their say before a decision is made."
CONTACT ME
t: 023 8042 4503
e: chris.yandell@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Woman died in hospital after fall at home, inquest opening hears

AN 86-YEAR-old woman died in hospital after she suffered a fall at home , an inquest opening heard .
Barbara @ @ @ @ @ home in Mislingford Road , Swanmore , on November 11 when she fell and her @ @ @ @ @ Mrs Richmond ’ s daughter was called , along with the ambulance service , and @ @ @ @ @ General Hospital .
She remained there until she died on December 14 .
An inquest @ @ @ @ @ by area coroner Jason Pegg at Winchester Coroner ’ s Court .
A post mortem @ @ @ @ @ causes of death as hypoactive delirium , multiple falls , hospital acquired pneumonia , frailty @ @ @ @ @ hypotension .
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing , and a full inquest will take place @ @ @ @ @ .

Barbara Ann Richman was at her home in Mislingford Road, Swanmore, on November 11 when she fell and her lifeline alarm was activated.
Mrs Richmond’s daughter was called, along with the ambulance service, and she was taken to Southampton General Hospital. She remained there until she died on December 14.
An inquest was opened into her death by area coroner Jason Pegg at Winchester Coroner’s Court.
A post mortem into her death gave the causes of death as hypoactive delirium, multiple falls, hospital acquired pneumonia, frailty of old age and postural hypotension.
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing, and a full inquest will take place on October 13 next year.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--AGONY ADVICE: Should we rethink big wedding plans?

Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine advises a woman rethinking her big wedding , and another who 's fed up with her controlling dad .
LOCKDOWN HAS MADE ME RETHINK HAVING A BIG WEDDING For two years , my fiance and I scrimped and saved so we could have the wedding of our dreams in summer 2020 .
Of course , the pandemic put paid to that .
Fortunately , although a lot of people knew the date , we 'd not sent out any invitations nor paid much in the way of deposits .
We 'd originally planned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honeymoon and we 've pretty much still got all that money , and have transferred our booking to June 2021 .
The thing is though , after lockdown and being forced to cut back on everything , I 'm now having second thoughts about the 'big day ' .
We 've had no meals out , no cinema trips , no dancing - those were special treats we allowed ourselves sometimes and I 've really missed them .
Saving was hard going , and at times I really resented not being able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but I 'm now wondering what my dream day is really about !
What is the point of spending all that money on a huge wedding , paying for lots of people - many of whom are n't even close friends - to come and watch us get married ?
I think we 'd be better off using the money in other ways , including having a bit more fun .
If we keep on saving , we 'd soon have enough to pay the deposit on our first home .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 'big day ' but I 'm not so sure .
I am seriously thinking I only want immediate family and very close friends , and that the idea of 30 people at a ceremony seems about right .
Especially if it means we could get a home and possibly start a family much sooner .
Do you think he 's right - will I live to regret it if I cut things right back for the wedding ?
FIONA SAYS : SMALL WEDDINGS CAN STILL BE SPECIAL It 's one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simple weddings have - when they 've been allowed - gone ahead , regardless of significantly reduced numbers .
For me , that can only be a good thing , as so many young couples saddle themselves with big debts at the start of a relationship , simply in order to have a 'spectacular ' day .
Yes , pledging yourself to another person is something to celebrate - but it 's something personal , so why does it have to cost the same as a deposit on a small house ?
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with fish and chips on the beach , or picnics in the park - costing so much less than a posh venue proper 'do ' .
A special day does n't have to cost tons of money - it can be special because you make it so .
How you make your day special is very much down to you and the people you love .
Scrimping and saving is all very well , but if it makes you resentful and bitter , that 's not going to help your relationship .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down and have a serious chat about what you want from life , as well as the wedding , and how you 're going to achieve it .
If it 's more important to you to have your own home and to start a family , than to splash out on a fancy big wedding , then you need to convince your fiance of this too .
Many grooms may not seem overly bothered about a big day but there may be certain things he 's hoping for - and this is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be happy with .
Once the two of you have reached an agreement , then you need to reach out to your wider family and let them know .
Some people may be disappointed - but the bottom line is that you should have the day the two of you want , at a price you 're comfortable with , and that gives you something special to remember .
Frame it in a positive way and I am sure people will be supportive .
CAN I TELL MY PARENTS I DO N'T WANT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Every year , my parents expect me to go with them to visit my mum 's brother for Christmas because he 's disabled and it 's hard for him to travel .
I do n't live with them anymore - I have a place of my own and I would love to just spend Christmas here quietly with my girlfriend .
Yet , for some reason , and in spite of all the pandemic restrictions in place , they still seem to want me to go to my uncle 's house with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll miss my girlfriend and wo n't really enjoy it , but my parents seem to think we should n't break with tradition .
They will be hurt and disappointed if I do n't go , but I 'm not even sure if it 's the right thing to do .
Am I right ?
FIONA SAYS : YES , YOU CAN You do n't say where you live , or where your parents and uncle live , but most regions have some sort of restrictions in place .
Although the rules on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced for a brief time over Christmas , we all still need to be cautious and sensible .
This is especially the case if your uncle , or parents , are in a medically vulnerable category .
In reality , all of us need to think carefully about our plans for Christmas , and whether travelling and spending time with others is worth the risk .
Even if technically the rules may 'allow ' us to mix , that does n't mean anyone should feel obliged and just steam ahead - we all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ourselves and others .
And , how would you spending Christmas with your parents and uncle impact your girlfriend ?
Assuming a three-household Christmas bubble applies ( you and your girlfriend being one household , your parents and uncle being the two others ) , then your girlfriend would either have to come with you or spend Christmas alone - as if she sees anyone else separately , that 's then going beyond three households .
I wonder if your parents realise all of this ?
I think all this gives you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your uncle 's house over the holiday period - however much you think it might upset your parents .
In reality though , they may not be as upset as you fear .
Often these things are n't as bad as we build them up to be in our minds , and it is n't fair for them to guilt-trip you .
Most people are facing a Christmas that 's different to usual this year .
For the future , however , and as you 've now left home , is n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a more flexible arrangement about Christmas ?
They must realise there will come a point when you are going to want to spend your Christmases with a family of your own , or simply with your partner .
That 's perfectly natural and it 's not 'wrong ' of you to want those things .
It 's unfortunate that your uncle can not travel , but your family can not dictate all your future Christmas arrangements .
Having said that , I hope that you find it in you to try to spend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Just perhaps not this Christmas with all the restrictions in place .
WHY IS MY CONSULTANT PUSHING ME TO HAVE PRENATAL TESTS ?
I am 38 and have just had the best Christmas present ever - I 've found out I 'm pregnant .
It 's taken us a long time and we were planning to resort to IVF , but we put that on hold this year .
So , to find I 've become pregnant naturally is a huge surprise .
We were seeing a consultant before all this and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an amniocentesis test .
He 's practically insisting on it and I do n't know why .
What worries me is I 've heard that a miscarriage can sometimes follow this type of test .
When I mentioned this to him , he said that the chances of this are very small when compared with the very real risk of having a baby with a disability .
I do n't understand why he thinks disability is a risk , and whatever any test shows I am going ahead with the pregnancy , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this ?
He rang again yesterday to ask if I 'd made up my mind and I am beginning to resent the fact he is spoiling what should be a happy time for me .
FIONA SAYS : ASK FOR A CLEAR EXPLANATION Is it possible your consultant is aware of some factors about your pregnancy you 're unaware of ?
Is he concerned about your age ?
Given your determination not to have a termination , whatever the outcome of the tests , it is hard to explain his persistence .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ why he is pushing it , and the only way you can find out is to ask him - so do please ask him to explain .
It might also help if you were armed with a bit of your own background research , so I suggest you look at the National Childbirth Trust website ( nct.org.uk ) .
There is a huge section on tests , scans and antenatal checks which explains a lot and makes the point , quite clearly , that it 's completely up to you whether you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stresses how important it is to understand the purpose of all the tests , so you can make an informed decision about whether to have them or not .
MY DAD IS TOO CONTROLLING My father has always been aggressive towards me and , even though I 'm 29 , he shows no sign of changing .
As far as he 's concerned , I have never been capable of doing anything properly .
He frequently intrudes into my friendships and any post I receive .
My mum died shortly after I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just him and me , but he remarried recently and it 's not going well .
He seems to blame me for that too !
I hate the situation I am in , but as I ca n't afford my own place , I am forced to live with him .
Your father sounds like a bully , and if he 's been like that all your life , I see little chance of him changing too .
It 's possibly a reason why his marriage is n't working too .
Please do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you .
He is responsible for his life .
If you want genuine independence , moving out sounds like the best solution , however daunting that may seem .
I know money is an issue , but you really can not let your father continue to dominate you like this .
The situation is already getting you down ; you do n't want to lose all your self-respect and confidence .
Could it , deep down , be more than just lack of money holding you back ?
It 's very common for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us unhappy , often because they are familiar and what we 're used to .
If you have n't already , it might be helpful to talk with a counsellor who can help you process all of these things .
If you ca n't afford to pay a deposit on a rental property , then perhaps see if you ca n't find someone to share with .
There are lots of adverts on verified property websites , or check with local estate agents .
You may have to get used to living on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your current and long-term happiness and quality of life .
I know it seems hard but there 's really nothing stopping you - except your own fear of change .
If you have a problem you need help with , email Fiona by writing to help @ askfiona.net for advice .
All letters are treated in complete confidence and , to protect this privacy , Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers .
Fiona regrets that she can not enter into personal correspondence .

LOCKDOWN HAS MADE ME RETHINK HAVING A BIG WEDDING
For two years, my fiance and I scrimped and saved so we could have the wedding of our dreams in summer 2020. Of course, the pandemic put paid to that. Fortunately, although a lot of people knew the date, we'd not sent out any invitations nor paid much in the way of deposits.
We'd originally planned to have a really big wedding and wonderful honeymoon and we've pretty much still got all that money, and have transferred our booking to June 2021. The thing is though, after lockdown and being forced to cut back on everything, I'm now having second thoughts about the 'big day'.
We've had no meals out, no cinema trips, no dancing - those were special treats we allowed ourselves sometimes and I've really missed them. Saving was hard going, and at times I really resented not being able to do the things other couples were doing - but I'm now wondering what my dream day is really about!
What is the point of spending all that money on a huge wedding, paying for lots of people - many of whom aren't even close friends - to come and watch us get married?
I think we'd be better off using the money in other ways, including having a bit more fun. If we keep on saving, we'd soon have enough to pay the deposit on our first home.
My fiance thinks I'll regret not having a 'big day' but I'm not so sure. I am seriously thinking I only want immediate family and very close friends, and that the idea of 30 people at a ceremony seems about right. Especially if it means we could get a home and possibly start a family much sooner.
Do you think he's right - will I live to regret it if I cut things right back for the wedding?
G. C.
FIONA SAYS: SMALL WEDDINGS CAN STILL BE SPECIAL
It's one of the strange things about lockdown that so many simple weddings have - when they've been allowed - gone ahead, regardless of significantly reduced numbers.
For me, that can only be a good thing, as so many young couples saddle themselves with big debts at the start of a relationship, simply in order to have a 'spectacular' day.
Yes, pledging yourself to another person is something to celebrate - but it's something personal, so why does it have to cost the same as a deposit on a small house?
I've heard of people having their receptions with fish and chips on the beach, or picnics in the park - costing so much less than a posh venue proper 'do'. A special day doesn't have to cost tons of money - it can be special because you make it so.
How you make your day special is very much down to you and the people you love. Scrimping and saving is all very well, but if it makes you resentful and bitter, that's not going to help your relationship.
I would suggest you and your fiance sit down and have a serious chat about what you want from life, as well as the wedding, and how you're going to achieve it. If it's more important to you to have your own home and to start a family, than to splash out on a fancy big wedding, then you need to convince your fiance of this too.
Many grooms may not seem overly bothered about a big day but there may be certain things he's hoping for - and this is a joint decision that you both need to be happy with. Once the two of you have reached an agreement, then you need to reach out to your wider family and let them know. Some people may be disappointed - but the bottom line is that you should have the day the two of you want, at a price you're comfortable with, and that gives you something special to remember. Frame it in a positive way and I am sure people will be supportive.
CAN I TELL MY PARENTS I DON'T WANT TO GO ALONG WITH THEIR CHRISTMAS PLANS?
Every year, my parents expect me to go with them to visit my mum's brother for Christmas because he's disabled and it's hard for him to travel.
I don't live with them anymore - I have a place of my own and I would love to just spend Christmas here quietly with my girlfriend. Yet, for some reason, and in spite of all the pandemic restrictions in place, they still seem to want me to go to my uncle's house with them this year.
I know I'll miss my girlfriend and won't really enjoy it, but my parents seem to think we shouldn't break with tradition. They will be hurt and disappointed if I don't go, but I'm not even sure if it's the right thing to do. Am I right?
B. W.
FIONA SAYS: YES, YOU CAN
You don't say where you live, or where your parents and uncle live, but most regions have some sort of restrictions in place. Although the rules on mixing with other households may be slightly reduced for a brief time over Christmas, we all still need to be cautious and sensible. This is especially the case if your uncle, or parents, are in a medically vulnerable category.
In reality, all of us need to think carefully about our plans for Christmas, and whether travelling and spending time with others is worth the risk. Even if technically the rules may 'allow' us to mix, that doesn't mean anyone should feel obliged and just steam ahead - we all still need to think about the health of ourselves and others.
And, how would you spending Christmas with your parents and uncle impact your girlfriend? Assuming a three-household Christmas bubble applies (you and your girlfriend being one household, your parents and uncle being the two others), then your girlfriend would either have to come with you or spend Christmas alone - as if she sees anyone else separately, that's then going beyond three households. I wonder if your parents realise all of this?
I think all this gives you a perfectly valid reason not to go to your uncle's house over the holiday period - however much you think it might upset your parents. In reality though, they may not be as upset as you fear. Often these things aren't as bad as we build them up to be in our minds, and it isn't fair for them to guilt-trip you. Most people are facing a Christmas that's different to usual this year.
For the future, however, and as you've now left home, isn't it time you and your parents had a more flexible arrangement about Christmas? They must realise there will come a point when you are going to want to spend your Christmases with a family of your own, or simply with your partner. That's perfectly natural and it's not 'wrong' of you to want those things.
It's unfortunate that your uncle cannot travel, but your family cannot dictate all your future Christmas arrangements. Having said that, I hope that you find it in you to try to spend a little time with your uncle periodically. Just perhaps not this Christmas with all the restrictions in place.
WHY IS MY CONSULTANT PUSHING ME TO HAVE PRENATAL TESTS?
I am 38 and have just had the best Christmas present ever - I've found out I'm pregnant. It's taken us a long time and we were planning to resort to IVF, but we put that on hold this year. So, to find I've become pregnant naturally is a huge surprise.
We were seeing a consultant before all this and he's now pushing me to have an amniocentesis test. He's practically insisting on it and I don't know why. What worries me is I've heard that a miscarriage can sometimes follow this type of test.
When I mentioned this to him, he said that the chances of this are very small when compared with the very real risk of having a baby with a disability. I don't understand why he thinks disability is a risk, and whatever any test shows I am going ahead with the pregnancy, so why is he putting pressure on me like this?
He rang again yesterday to ask if I'd made up my mind and I am beginning to resent the fact he is spoiling what should be a happy time for me.
C.G.
FIONA SAYS: ASK FOR A CLEAR EXPLANATION
Is it possible your consultant is aware of some factors about your pregnancy you're unaware of? Is he concerned about your age? Given your determination not to have a termination, whatever the outcome of the tests, it is hard to explain his persistence. I have no possible way of knowing why he is pushing it, and the only way you can find out is to ask him - so do please ask him to explain.
It might also help if you were armed with a bit of your own background research, so I suggest you look at the National Childbirth Trust website (nct.org.uk). There is a huge section on tests, scans and antenatal checks which explains a lot and makes the point, quite clearly, that it's completely up to you whether you have the tests or not. It also stresses how important it is to understand the purpose of all the tests, so you can make an informed decision about whether to have them or not.
MY DAD IS TOO CONTROLLING
My father has always been aggressive towards me and, even though I'm 29, he shows no sign of changing. As far as he's concerned, I have never been capable of doing anything properly.
He frequently intrudes into my friendships and any post I receive. My mum died shortly after I was born, so it's always been just him and me, but he remarried recently and it's not going well. He seems to blame me for that too!
I hate the situation I am in, but as I can't afford my own place, I am forced to live with him.
A. Q.
FIONA SAYS: WHAT'S HOLDING YOU BACK?
Your father sounds like a bully, and if he's been like that all your life, I see little chance of him changing too. It's possibly a reason why his marriage isn't working too. Please don't let him lay any blame on you. He is responsible for his life.
If you want genuine independence, moving out sounds like the best solution, however daunting that may seem. I know money is an issue, but you really cannot let your father continue to dominate you like this. The situation is already getting you down; you don't want to lose all your self-respect and confidence.
Could it, deep down, be more than just lack of money holding you back? It's very common for people to remain in patterns that make us unhappy, often because they are familiar and what we're used to. If you haven't already, it might be helpful to talk with a counsellor who can help you process all of these things.
If you can't afford to pay a deposit on a rental property, then perhaps see if you can't find someone to share with. There are lots of adverts on verified property websites, or check with local estate agents. You may have to get used to living on a tighter budget - but think of your current and long-term happiness and quality of life. I know it seems hard but there's really nothing stopping you - except your own fear of change.
If you have a problem you need help with, email Fiona by writing to help@askfiona.net for advice. All letters are treated in complete confidence and, to protect this privacy, Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers. Fiona regrets that she cannot enter into personal correspondence.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Test Valley businesses urged to apply for coronavirus grants

BUSINESSES impacted by the pandemic are being urged to apply for `` Covid grants '' .
Test Valley Borough Council has urged its local businesses to take advantage of the financial support available to them as the area was placed into Tier 4 as of Boxing Day .
The government is expected to provide further financial assistance after the changes to restrictions were announced on December 23 .
But there are already hundreds of thousands of pounds available for those affected by the previous lockdowns and tier 2 restrictions .
There are currently five live schemes , with grants varying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £3k for every 28-day period .
They include money for businesses that have been forced to close as a result of the national restrictions , as well as those that remained open but whose custom was significantly impacted .
There is also a one-off Christmas support payment of £1,000 available to all wet-led pubs .
Finance portfolio holder , councillor Maureen Flood , has urged businesses to apply for the grants , claiming 2020 has probably been the `` most challenging year many business have ever faced . ''
She said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been utterly devastating and the impact on businesses has also been catastrophic .
“ Our teams continue to work incredibly hard to process applications as quickly as possible and we are urging people to ensure they apply for these grants .
`` The money is there and available to all those who are eligible , so I would appeal to businesses to take a look as every little helps .
`` We are all hoping that 2021 will be better , and with the rollout of the vaccine that should indeed be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grants will help see us through the challenging months ahead.
” Businesses can find information and apply for grants on the councils website .

Test Valley Borough Council has urged its local businesses to take advantage of the financial support available to them as the area was placed into Tier 4 as of Boxing Day.
The government is expected to provide further financial assistance after the changes to restrictions were announced on December 23.
But there are already hundreds of thousands of pounds available for those affected by the previous lockdowns and tier 2 restrictions.
There are currently five live schemes, with grants varying from between a few hundred pounds to £3k for every 28-day period.
They include money for businesses that have been forced to close as a result of the national restrictions, as well as those that remained open but whose custom was significantly impacted.
There is also a one-off Christmas support payment of £1,000 available to all wet-led pubs.
Finance portfolio holder, councillor Maureen Flood, has urged businesses to apply for the grants, claiming 2020 has probably been the "most challenging year many business have ever faced."
She said: "The health impact of the virus has been utterly devastating and the impact on businesses has also been catastrophic.
“Our teams continue to work incredibly hard to process applications as quickly as possible and we are urging people to ensure they apply for these grants.
"The money is there and available to all those who are eligible, so I would appeal to businesses to take a look as every little helps.
"We are all hoping that 2021 will be better, and with the rollout of the vaccine that should indeed be the case. But in the meantime these grants will help see us through the challenging months ahead.”
Businesses can find information and apply for grants on the councils website.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Hampshire sailors receive national awards for dedication

Two Hampshire sailors have been awarded national awards for their dedication to boating .
Dave Vines and John Horwell are among 44 ‘ unsung heroes ’ from across the UK celebrated in the RYA ( Royal Yachting Association ) Volunteer Awards 2020 .
Dave who has volunteered across all sailing activities at Hill Head Sailing Club in Fareham for over 20 years has been recognised with a RYA Lifetime Commitment Award .
Whilst John , a volunteer at Warsash Sailing Club and a sailing events volunteer since the 1970 's , has been recognised with a RYA National Award .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of my club valued my voluntary contributions highly enough to nominate me was extremely gratifying .
“ I qualified as a dinghy instructor , race coach , and safety boat cox , and in each of these roles I have found immense pleasure helping others learn to sail . ''
John said : `` I have thoroughly enjoyed being at events , it allows me to put something back into the sport and I enjoy helping and guiding new volunteers . ''
Due to the pandemic , the usual awards ceremony , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place , but instead the awards have been presented to volunteers at their local sailing clubs or during online gatherings .
Sarah Treseder , RYA Chief Executive said : “ This year more than ever before we have seen our club volunteers come together and work tirelessly to ensure members can continue to sail .
`` The generosity and dedication of each of the RYA Volunteer Award recipients is outstanding . ''

Dave Vines and John Horwell are among 44 ‘unsung heroes’ from across the UK celebrated in the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Volunteer Awards 2020.
Dave who has volunteered across all sailing activities at Hill Head Sailing Club in Fareham for over 20 years has been recognised with a RYA Lifetime Commitment Award.
Whilst John, a volunteer at Warsash Sailing Club and a sailing events volunteer since the 1970's, has been recognised with a RYA National Award.
Dave said: “To think that members of my club valued my voluntary contributions highly enough to nominate me was extremely gratifying.
“I qualified as a dinghy instructor, race coach, and safety boat cox, and in each of these roles I have found immense pleasure helping others learn to sail."
John said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed being at events, it allows me to put something back into the sport and I enjoy helping and guiding new volunteers."
Due to the pandemic, the usual awards ceremony, in London, was not able to take place, but instead the awards have been presented to volunteers at their local sailing clubs or during online gatherings.
Sarah Treseder, RYA Chief Executive said: “This year more than ever before we have seen our club volunteers come together and work tirelessly to ensure members can continue to sail.
"The generosity and dedication of each of the RYA Volunteer Award recipients is outstanding."


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--A334 in Botley partially blocked after crash

A VILLAGE road has been partially blocked after a crash .
The A334 on Station Hill in Botley is partially @ @ @ @ @ due to a crash near to The Railway Inn .
Short delays are currently building @ @ @

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Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services.
These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Do youth think Southampton schools should reopen?

SCHOOLS across Southampton and Hampshire are set to reopen in January .
The Government is “ still planning for a @ @ @ @ @ after Christmas but is keeping the plan under constant review , Downing Street has said @ @ @ @ @ s official spokesman has said : “ We ’ re still planning for a staggered @ @ @ @ @ are working to ensure testing is in place .
“ As we have said throughout @ @ @ @ @ keep all measures under constant review.
” Meanwhile , the Chair of the Education Select @ @ @ @ @ has called for the Government to “ weigh up ” the risks of Covid-19 to @ @ @ @ @ risk closing schools poses to their wellbeing .
The Daily Echo is asking readers what @ @ @

The Government is “still planning for a staggered opening of schools” after Christmas but is keeping the plan under constant review, Downing Street has said.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman has said: “We’re still planning for a staggered opening of schools and we are working to ensure testing is in place.
“As we have said throughout the pandemic, we obviously keep all measures under constant review.”
Meanwhile, the Chair of the Education Select Committee, Robert Halfon, has called for the Government to “weigh up” the risks of Covid-19 to children, compared to the risk closing schools poses to their wellbeing.
The Daily Echo is asking readers what they think.
Please answer our ballot.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Southampton man arrested on suspicion of murder

A SOUTHAMPTON MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder .
A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of @ @ @ @ @ was found in the water at Riverside Park on September 5 last year .
Police @ @ @ @ @ of gunshots in River Walk where officers found a home used to grow cannabis had @ @ @ @ @ investigating Sol ’ s death arrested a 30-year-old man from Southampton on suspicion of murder @ @ @ @ @ .
He was also arrested on suspicion of possession of another person ’ s identity @ @ @ @ @ .
He has been released on bail until January 24 , 2021 , to allow @ @ @ @

A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Sol Hemy whose body was found in the water at Riverside Park on September 5 last year.
Police had been called following reports of gunshots in River Walk where officers found a home used to grow cannabis had been broken into.
Police investigating Sol’s death arrested a 30-year-old man from Southampton on suspicion of murder and questioned him in custody.
He was also arrested on suspicion of possession of another person’s identity document and obtaining/acquiring/using criminal property.
He has been released on bail until January 24, 2021, to allow for further enquiries.
The investigation is ongoing.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Staff at Sainsbury's Bitterne test positive for coronavirus

A NUMBER of Southampton supermarket staff have been force to isolate after testing positive for coronavirus .
A group of colleagues have tested positive for the virus at Sainsbury 's in Bitterne , but the store has not been closed .
The store , on Bitterne Road , has confirmed that a `` small number '' of their staff have been forced to isolate after testing positive .
A number of other staff are also self-isolating as a precaution .
Sainsbury 's confirmed the cases to the Daily Echo today , adding that safety is their `` highest priority '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have began to enforce stricter social distancing measures .
There are also hand sanitiser stations , Perspex screens and PPE for all staff .
A Sainsbury ’ s spokesperson said : “ A small number of colleagues have tested positive at our Bitterne store and they are self-isolating at home .
Some colleagues are self-isolating as a precaution .
“ Safety is our highest priority .
We have introduced additional cleaning and have strict social distancing measures in all our stores , as well as hand sanitiser stations , Perspex screens and PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to support Test and Trace and remain in close contact with them.
” It has not been confirmed how many of the staff have tested positive or how many staff are currently self-isolating .
The store remains open at this time .

A group of colleagues have tested positive for the virus at Sainsbury's in Bitterne, but the store has not been closed.
The store, on Bitterne Road, has confirmed that a "small number" of their staff have been forced to isolate after testing positive.
A number of other staff are also self-isolating as a precaution.
Sainsbury's confirmed the cases to the Daily Echo today, adding that safety is their "highest priority".
Management have introduced additional cleaning and have began to enforce stricter social distancing measures. There are also hand sanitiser stations, Perspex screens and PPE for all staff.
A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “A small number of colleagues have tested positive at our Bitterne store and they are self-isolating at home. Some colleagues are self-isolating as a precaution.
“Safety is our highest priority. We have introduced additional cleaning and have strict social distancing measures in all our stores, as well as hand sanitiser stations, Perspex screens and PPE for all our colleagues.
"We continue to support Test and Trace and remain in close contact with them.”
It has not been confirmed how many of the staff have tested positive or how many staff are currently self-isolating.
The store remains open at this time.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--M27 closed in both directions due to police incident

UPDATE 10pm : Incident is still ongoing , police remain on the scene .
THE M27 is closed in both @ @ @ @ @ incident .
The road is shut between Junction 8 ( Windhover ) and Junction 9 @ @ @ @ @ The closure is said to be due to a `` Hampshire Police led incident '' @ @ @ @ @ U-turning traffic caught up in the closure .
They say , due to the nature @ @ @ @ @ can not be released forwards .
Road users are advised to consider alternative routes and @ @ @ @ @ journey .
A police spokesperson said : `` These closures will be in place for @ @ @ @ @ people to avoid the area . ''

THE M27 is closed in both directions due to a police incident.
The road is shut between Junction 8 (Windhover) and Junction 9 (Park Gate).
The closure is said to be due to a "Hampshire Police led incident".
Officers are working on U-turning traffic caught up in the closure.
They say, due to the nature of the incident, traffic cannot be released forwards.
Road users are advised to consider alternative routes and allow additional time for their journey.
A police spokesperson said: "These closures will be in place for some time and we urge people to avoid the area."
More to follow.
The #M27 is CLOSED in both directions between J8 #Windhover and J9 #ParkGate due to a @HantsPolice police led incident. For diversion details please see - https://t.co/XqolwvBFrR
Consider alternative routes and allow additional time pic.twitter.com/7NIHoXk98R — Highways England (@HighwaysSEAST) December 29, 2020