Elsie enjoyed a spectacular career spanning over five decades
Actress and director Elsie Kelly(Image: Liverpool ECHO/Handout)
TV legend and former director of Birkenhead Operatic Society, Elsie Kelly, died aged 89 yesterday. Elsie, who was from Bootle enjoyed a spectacular career spanning more than five decades. Among the television shows she appeared in are Crossroads, The Famous Five and Harry and the Wrinklies.
Perhaps her most famous role came as the much-loved Noreen Maltby in the hit comedy show Benidorm. She appeared in the show from 2007 until 2012, reprising her role between 2015 and 2018.
Elsie was also a star of the stage, some of the productions she worked on are Annie, 42nd Street, Oliver, The Sound of Music, The Full Monty, Hello Dolly, Crazy for you, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Jekyll and Hyde.
On Facebook, Benidorm co-star Crissy Rock posted: “So sad to hear of the passing of Elsie Kelly this morning. We shared so many wonderful memories filming Benidorm, moments I’ll always treasure. She was an absolute joy to work with and brought so much warmth and laughter wherever she went.
Actress Elsie Kelly as Noreen in Benidorm
“I was so touched that she came to see me on tour a couple of times recently at St Helens Theatre Royal – it meant a lot. Thinking of her family and all who loved her. She’ll be deeply missed.”
Tributes have been paid for Elsie after the heartbreaking announcement. One comment said: “Oh no bless her our dear Noreen, Elsie. Such a fun loving lady who had us in stitches throughout the series. She will be missed hugely RIP Elsie and thank you for having the best character in Benidorm.”
Another comment was: “She was so funny on Benidorm had the best lines and pulled them all off brilliantly she will be remembered forever. Thinking of her family today rest in peace Elsie.”
Further tributes included: “So sorry to hear this. Brilliant actress and lovely lady. RIP” and “So sorry to hear this sad news she was a beautiful lady god bless her.”
Actress and director Elsie Kelly(Image: Liverpool ECHO/Handout)
In her hometown of Merseyside, Elsie was an important figure for decades and always remained close to her roots. From 1973 until 2019, Elsie, a former Head of Theatre Studies at Elliott Clarke College, in Liverpool, had been the permanent director of Birkenhead Operatic Society, overseeing more than 80 musicals.
Elsie Kelly is remembered not only for her contributions to British entertainment but also for her kindness, wit, and the joy and commitment she brought to every project she touched.
She is survived by her devoted sons Chris and Geoff, and her cherished grandson Elliott. She died peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family.