The star was also known for her roles in popular shows such as Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em, Grange Hill, Last Of The Summer Wine, Brighton Belles and Doctors.

"It is with overwhelming sadness that we must announce that Jean Boht passed away yesterday," her family said in a statement.

"Jean had been battling vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease with the indefatigable spirit for which she was both beloved and renowned.

"She was a resident at Denville Hall, the home for members of the theatrical profession."

Her family said they would like to send their "grateful thanks" to everyone at Denville Hall who took "such wonderful care of Jean" - and also to the staff at Hillingdon Hospital who "made her so comfortable".

The City Council of Liverpool, where she began her career, paid tribute to a "brilliant actor" in response to the news, adding: "She was a fabulous advocate for Liverpool and our arts sector, most notably in the city's successful bid and year as European Capital of Culture in 2008."

In a varied career, her stint on Bread became her best-known role.

Created by Carla Lane, Bread ran from 1986 to 1991 and was watched by more than 20 million people at its peak.

Boht won a British Comedy Award for best TV comedy actress, while she was also the subject of the biographical television show This Is Your Life in 1989.

Born in Bebingdon in 1932, Boht began her career as a £1-a-week student at the Liverpool Playhouse.

She joined the Bristol Old Vic and Manchester Companies, before returning to Liverpool to perform alongside Sir Patrick Stewart, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Lynda La Plante.

As well as numerous West End theatres, she also starred at the Royal Court, the National Theatre and at the Chichester Festival.

Her film roles included Bad Night For The Blues, The Girl In A Swing and Mothers And Daughters.

She was married to award-winning composer Carl Davis, who died last month, and she had two children and three grandchildren.