Trivia

She was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in the 1992 Queen's Honours List for her services to drama.

She was awarded the Queen's Silver Medal in the 1977 Jubilee Celebration.

Was adviser for the Arts Council's training scheme from 1978.

In 1963 she became the first female president of the jury at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Second head of jury at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1963

Daughter of a bristle merchant.

Child prodigy as a dancer. Her first public appearance was at the Royal Albert Hall, aged four. Choreographed a ballet at the London Palladium by the age of nine.

Received dancing tutoring from Ruby Ginner, Ninette de Valois and Anton Dolin.

Won first prize at Cannes for 'The Stranger Left No Card'.