The Archers legend June Spencer dies at 105 after starring on soap for over 70 years

Known as Peggy Woolley on BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, actress June Spencer has died at the age of 105 years old with her family penning an emotional statement to share the news.

June Spencer, who played matriarch Margaret "Peggy" Woolley on BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, has died at the age of 105.

Her family said in a statement, relayed to the BBC this Friday, November 8, 2024: "June Spencer , aged 105, best known for playing Peggy in BBC Radio 4 The Archers, died peacefully in her sleep in the early hours of this morning."

The statement adds: "Her family would like to pay particular tribute and thanks to the staff team at Liberham Lodge, who so lovingly cared for her in the last two years."

June was the last original cast member of The Archers and decided to bow out of the show in 2022, stating it was "high time" for her to retire. "In 1950 I helped to plant an acorn. It took root and in January 1951 it was planted out and called The Archers", she notably remembered.

"Over the years it has thrived and become a splendid great tree with many branches. But now this old branch, known as Peggy, has become weak and unsafe so I decided it was high time she 'boughed' out, so I have duly lopped her." Queen Camilla was among her many fans.

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