Blunderwoman star Bella Emberg dies at age 80

Russ Abbot has led tributes to his former Blunderwoman co-star Bella Emberg after her death at 80.

Emberg found fame in the 1980s, appearing in a host of iconic television shows ranging from Doctor Who the Lily Savage Show.

But she will be most remembered for her spoof superhero character in a comedic partnership with Abbot as "Cooperman & Blunderwoman".

"It is with a heavy heart that I heard the news about Bella," he said. "She was my leading lady throughout most of my career.

"She was not only a great sport but a huge comedy talent. A genuinely funny woman, but most of all a woman of immense warmth and generosity. I count myself very lucky to have worked alongside her.

"She really was a one off. RIP Bella."

Fans have been paying tribute after news of her death on Friday evening.