Former Crossroads actress Charmian Abrahams has tragically died after being struck by a delivery van in Birmingham.
Ms Abrahams, who starred as Mavis Hooper in the popular British soap during the 1980s, died aged 96 following the fatal collision in Harborne, south-west Birmingham, just before midday on Monday.
During a career spanning 50 years, she worked with acting greats including Sir Noël Coward, Albert Finney and Sir Ian McKellen.
In a heartfelt tribute, her distraught family said: ‘Charmian was a much-loved aunt and great-aunt and a dear friend to many. At 96 she was still full of life and energy and fiercely independent.
‘We are devastated that her life has been brought to an end so suddenly and tragically, but we will treasure our memories of her zest for life and the many good times we shared with her.’
Former Crossroads actress Charmian Abrahams has tragically died after being struck by a delivery van in Birmingham
Ms Abrahams, also known as Charmian Eyre, featured in several TV shows during her career but landed her role in Crossroads in 1981.
The popular soap, which ran for 24 years between 1964 and 1988, before a brief revival in the early 200s, was set in a fictional Midlands hotel.
Abrahams featured in more than 50 episodes before leaving in 1985.
Before Crossroads, she had also toured with stage companies around Northern Europe and and New Zealeand.
She also starred in Precious Bane (1957), Musical Playhouse (1959) and BBC Sunday-Night Theatre (1950).
West Midlands Police said that its Serious Collision Investigation Unit is probing the crash, which happened on Lordswood Road in Harborne at about 11.40am.
Investigators have appealed for further witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.
West Midlands Police said that its Serious Collision Investigation Unit is probing the crash, which happened on Lordswood Road (pictured) in Harborne at about 11.40am on Monday
It’s understood that Ms Abrahams was struck by a Sainsbury’s delivery van.
A spokesman for the supermarket told Birmingham Live: ‘An incident took place involving one of our drivers earlier this week.
‘We are supporting the colleague involved in any way we can and helping the police with their investigation.
‘Our thoughts are also with the woman’s family at this sad and difficult time.’