The entertainment world is in mourning following the death of beloved actress Lorraine Cheshire, best known for playing teacher Fleur Budgen on the hit school drama Waterloo Road. She was 65 years old.
Heartfelt Tributes from Co-Stars and Fans
The sad news was confirmed by her partner, John Dixon, who shared a poignant message on Facebook. He wrote of his heartbreak after 46 years together, stating: "The love of my life passed away early this morning... To the green fields beyond."
Reece Dinsdale, who played Joe McIntyre on Coronation Street from 2008 to 2010 and worked with Cheshire on the BBC series Moving On, led the public tributes. The 66-year-old actor posted on social media: "Lorraine Cheshire. Such a kind soul and talented actor. So sad. May you rest in peace, Lorraine. xxx."
Fans and colleagues quickly flooded online platforms with their own messages of condolence and remembrance. One admirer recalled her being "fabulous in Early Doors and Waterloo Road," adding she was a "lovely, lovely woman." Another simply stated: "Awful news. So so sad. Lovely person. Go well Lorraine."
A Celebrated Career on Screen
Lorraine Cheshire enjoyed a rich and varied acting career that began later in life. She secured her first role in her late thirties, appearing in the BBC period series Cranford.
Her breakthrough came when she joined the cast of Waterloo Road in 2007, portraying English teacher Fleur Budgen for five years until 2012. This role made her a familiar face to millions of viewers.
Her television credits were extensive and impressive, including notable appearances in Holby City, Clocking Off, and a main role in the cult sitcom Early Doors. From 2011 until 2018, she also starred as Sue Benson in the popular Sky comedy Trollied.
Industry Friends Share Their Grief
The shockwaves of her passing were felt deeply across the industry. Early Doors co-star Christine Bottomley shared a symbolic image of a lit candle with a brandy and coke on Instagram Stories, captioning it: "No words today," alongside a broken heart emoji.
Actor friend Anthony Crank expressed his devastation, calling Cheshire "one of the kindest, funniest, beautiful and caring souls I ever had the privilege to know." He urged people to hold their loved ones close, signing off with: "REST IN POWER YOU ABSOLUTE QUEEN."
The loss of Lorraine Cheshire marks a sad moment for British television, robbing it of a talented and warmly regarded performer whose work brought joy to audiences for nearly three decades.
