James Bond girl Honor Blackman dies aged 94

A message from her family said: "It's with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Honor Blackman aged 94. She died peacefully of natural causes at home in Lewes, Sussex surrounded by her family. She was much loved and will be greatly missed by her two adopted children Barnaby and Lottie, and her four grandchildren Daisy, Oscar, Olive and Toby.

"As well as being a much adored mother and grandmother, Honor was an actor of hugely prolific creative talent; with an extraordinary combination of beauty, brains and physical prowess, along with her unique voice and a dedicated work ethic she achieved an unparalleled iconic status in the world of film and entertainment and with absolute commitment to her craft and total professionalism in all her endeavours she contributed to some of the great films and theatre productions of our times.

"Her numerous and varied roles included Cathy Gale in The Avengers and Bond girl Pussy Galore in Goldfinger. She is also famous for her role as the vengeful goddess Hera in the Ray Harryhausen, Charles H Schneer, production of Jason And The Argonauts and as Laura West on the TV series The Upper Hand (1990-1996). Honor's successful career has also extended into theatre including The Sound Of Music, My Fair Lady and Cabaret to name just a few.

"In recent years Honor was touring and performing in her show Honor Blackman As Herself at various venue across the UK. In conversation with her colleague and friend Richard Digby Day she looked back over her astonishing life, her beginnings, her family, her rise to stardom with her usual sense of humour and perspective.

"Honor was an avid reader of news and politics and she particularly loved all forms of insightful unbiased reporting and intellectually enlightened broadcasting.

"We ask you to respect the privacy of our family at this difficult time".

Film director Edgar Wright described Honor Blackman as the "ultimate Bond Girl and original Avenger" in a tribute tweet.

David Walliams tweeted: "Farewell Honor Blackman. She will live forever as Pussy Galore in 'Goldfinger'."

Actor Joe McGann, who starred alongside Blackman in the ITV series The Upper Hand, tweeted: "Just heard the very sad news that dear Honor has died. What a woman she was- fiercely bright, superbly funny and a wonderful actress on screen and onstage. I loved every day of working with her and I loved and respected her with all my heart. RIP."

Blackman was a member of the Liberal Democrats and before that the Liberal Party, and was often seen at campaign events.

Former leader Tim Farron tweeted: "You could guarantee bums on seats at any Lib Dem event Honor was at. She was charismatic, principled and kind. A very sad day, sending love to her family."

And current acting leader Sir Ed Davey posted: "Very sad to see Honor Blackman has died - my condolences to her family & friends. Never forget when she came to Kingston to campaign with me - sheer grace and charm, & a great supporter for Liberals & @LibDems."