Our first record for Irene in the archives is for wardrobe in a production in 1972. The following year she played Linda in Death of a Salesman, a demanding role which established her as an actress who, though an infrequent visitor to our stage, could be relied upon to perform some of the most outstanding characters. In 1973 she played Mrs Frank in The Diary of Anne Frank, and two years later astonished us as the dominant and cruel Mum who terrified her family from behind her eyepatch in The Anniversary.

Regular involvement back-stage in a variety of jobs for some years was eventually interrupted by another startling transformation into Big Mama in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and then, soon after, Clairee in Steel Magnolias, Mrs Northrop in When We Are Married and Lil in Kindertransport.

Husband Neil was a major figure in our theatre as actor and Chairman, but his premature death in 1999 denied them of the retirement they would have enjoyed together. Since then, Irene still actively and regularly worked on our productions in costume, prompting and props.

Always a delightful companion with a light humour and a friendly interest in other members’ families, she enjoyed her recent efforts in the very sociable morning wardrobe team. Son Chris followed in his parents’ footsteps onto our stage; son Tim is a professional cellist; and granddaughter Doraly is a keen member of our Youth Theatre. Irene and Neil also played at the Minack Theatre with the Hertfordshire Players in the 90s.

Despite the onset of the problems of age, Irene remained a bright and lively friend. We will all miss her.

We offer our sympathy to Chris and Tim and the family, and her many friends.