'On The Buses' star Anna Karen dies in house fire aged 85

Veteran actor Anna Karen has died in a house fire at age 85.

The On the Buses and EastEnders star lost her life as in the blaze on East London's Windsor Road, Ilford shortly after 10.30pm on Tuesday night.

Firefighters managed get the fire on the ground floor of the terraced house under control in less than an hour, but it proved too late to save the actor.

Confirming the tragedy, the star's family friend told Mail Online: "We are absolutely horrified at the news about Anna."

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson has also confirmed: "Sadly, a woman has died following a house fire on Windsor Road in Ilford.

"Part of the ground floor of a mid-terrace house was damaged by fire. Sadly a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The Brigade was called at 22:40 and the fire was under control by 23:38. Three fire engines and around 20 firefighters from Ilford and Barking fire stations attended the incident. The cause of the fire is under investigation."

Read More: Anna Karen reunited with EastEnders' cast for the funeral of Dame Barbara Windsor

Bucks Fizz singer Cheryl Baker paid tribute to the late actor, saying: “I have just heard the awful news that my fabulous mate, Anna Karen has died in a house fire.

“What a horrific way to die, I can’t bear to think about it. I adored her - she was an absolute treasure, both on and off the screen.”

EastEnders star Rita Simons, who played Roxy Mitchell, also added: “I just heard the awful news about the wonderful Anna Karen. Horrific and awful and so so sad.

“She was one of the best. Sleep well lovely Anna. Sending all my love to her family and friends.”

Fans also took to social media to mourn her passing, one said: “Absolutely gutted to hear of the tragic end to Anna Karen. My thoughts are with her family and friends and this very sad time.

“Many thanks for the On The Buses memories.”

The star, who made her name playing Olive in 70s comedy On The Buses, also famously starred in EastEnders as Aunt Sal the no-nonsense sister of Peggy Mitchell, played by the late Barbara Windsor.

She made her first step onto Albert Square in 1996 and last appeared in her beloved role on the BBC One soap in January 2017.

She reprised the role of Olive in The Rag Trade in the late 1970s and had roles in two Carry On films: Carry On Camping and Carry On Loving.

Karen, who was born in Durban, South Africa as Ann McCall to an Irish father and an English mother developed a love for acting in her youth. She appeared in various productions in South Africa before moving to London aged 17 and enrolling in The London School of Dramatic Art.

She was also a theatre star appearing in several pantomimes across the UK.

Watch: Dame Barbara Windsor was honoured as a 'triple threat' at her funeral