Vera Frances: Former actress who starred alongside George Formby and Arthur Askey dies aged 95
Tributes have been paid to former British actress Vera Frances, who dies at the age of 95.
Vera appeared in a handful of productions as a young child actress, notably alongside stars such as Arthur Askey and George Formby among many others.
Her death was confirmed by her grandson Iain Ward, who said on Facebook: “It is with sadness that I must report to the community the death of Vera Frances, my grandmother, who worked with Arthur [Askey] on Back Room Boy and King Arthur Was A Gentleman as well as touring with him in several stage shows at Arthur’s personal request.
“Over the years many of you have tracked her down and written letters to her and it was always a great thrill for her to know that these gentle films still brought so much joy and pleasure. Vera died at home on Wednesday morning, the 7th [January], with family.”
Vera’s other credits include It’s That Man Again, Get Cracking, Waterloo Road (1945), and Good-Time Girl. She eventually left acting to pursue her passion in dance, opening a successful dance school.
The former actress was married to Dennis William Ward, whom she married in 1953. They remained married until Dennis’s death at the age of 74 in 2000.
Tributes have poured in for Vera on social media. In response to Iain’s post, one fan said: “She was a little star in Back Room Boy. Sorry for your loss. I watched that film with my dad and my kids (grown up) and will do with my 5 year old too! Glad that she enjoyed the fact that folks were still enjoying these films after so many years.
Another heartbroken fan said: “I am so sorry to hear this, and this marks the end of an era. I had communication with Vera via your family a few years ago, which meant a lot to me.