The British actress shot to fame as Blunder Woman alongside comedy partner Russ Abbot.

Emberg’s agent confirmed the sad news to the BBC last night, saying that she would be “greatly missed.”

She was known for wide-ranging TV roles in shows such as Doctor Who, Z Cars, The Benny Hill Show and the Lily Savage Show.

Emberg’s iconic Blunder Woman character entertained the nation on The Russ Abbot Show during the 1980s as she played the parody sidekick to Abbot’s Cooperman, a cross between Tommy Cooper and Superman.

Abbot, 70, led tributes to the late star, telling the Press Association: “It is with a heavy heart that I heard the news about Bella.

“She was my leading lady throughout most of my career,” he continued. “She was not only a great sport but a huge comedy talent.

“A genuinely funny woman, but most of all a women of immense warm and generosity.

“I count myself very lucky to have worked alongside her,” Abbot concluded. “She really was a one off. RIP Bella.”

TV personality and pianist Bobby Crush, 63, who was close friends with Emberg, paid tribute on social media, saying: “Such sad news… My wonderful friend Bella Emberg has passed away.

“We’ve been chums since appearing together in a Summer show with Russ Abbot at the Princess Theatre, Torquay in 1981.

“A genuinely nice woman and despite her fierce on-stage characterisations, a truly gentle soul,” Crush praised.

Comedy legend Les Dennis, 64, also paid tribute to Emberg on social media, saying: “So sad to lose the lovely Bella Emberg.

“A funny, lovely friend,” he added. “Thoughts and love with Rosemary. Goodnight sweetheart.”

Paul Chuckle, 71, tweeted: “Just heard. RIP the lovely Bella Emberg. Funniest fairy ever with us @SheffieldLyceum. Will miss you.”

Emberg recently finished filming a new Sky comedy with Idris Elba, In the Long Run, which is set for release later this year.