English actress Una Stubbs, best known for her roles in the film Summer Holiday and in the BBC sitcoms Fawlty Towers and EastEnders, has died aged 84.

In a statement, obtained by news.com.au, Stubbs’ family said: “Mum passed away quietly today with her family around her, in Edinburgh. We ask for privacy and understanding at this most difficult and sad of times.”

Stubbs’ got her big break in Cliff Richard’s 1963 film Summer Holiday before starring in the hit sitcom Till Death Us Do Part. The actress went on to appear in shows like Faulty Towers, Worzel Gummidge, The Worst Witch and EastEnders.

Stubbs’ last major role was playing Sherlock Holmes’ landlady Mrs Hudson in BBC series Sherlock starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

“Una was a wonderful, talented, stylish, gentle, joyous and honest friend. A joy to work with, to laugh with and to make laugh,” Cumberbatch said in a statement provided to Metro.co.uk.

“So humble and yet so damn good. She lit up the room and will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know her, but she will be remembered forever with fondness and love.”

Meanwhile, English actress Joanna Lumley also shared her condolences, writing on Twitter: “Devastated to hear about the passing of the brilliant Una Stubbs. My thoughts go out to her family & friends at this very sad time.”

Television personality and quiz master Anne Hegerty tweeted: “Back when I was a journalist, I made a list of the five nicest people I had ever interviewed. Una Stubbs was on there. (I had a chance to tell her this at the NTAs a few years ago.)”

Fans of Stubbs’ also took to social media to pay their respects, with Twitter user @gasgasbones writing: “Oh no! I know she had been in tons of stuff but she will always be Aunt Sally to me. RIP.”

And @gmgturn commented: “I’m sorry to hear this. I really like her.”