Actress and writer Caroline Aherne dies aged 52 at her home in Timperley

The actress Caroline Aherne, who’s  character Mrs Merton made a generation laugh, has died at her home in Timperley, at the age of just 52.

Modern television audiences know her as the voice of Bafta winning Googlebox whose commentaries were as cutting as Mrs Merton ever was, delivering withering lines through a smile.  She had to leave the series earlier this year while receiving treatment.

Caroline had grown up in Wythenshawe and had stayed loyal to Manchester throughout her success.  She announced two years ago that she had been diagnosed with lung cancer, having previously had a rare form of eye cancer and bladder cancer.

Her publicist Neil Redding said today.“Caroline Aherne has sadly passed away after a brave battle with cancer,

“The Bafta award-winning writer and comedy actor died earlier today at her home in Timperley, Greater Manchester. She was 52. The family ask for privacy at this very sad time.”

Her creation of Mrs Merton was one of the most popular show business characters of the nineties and some of her phrases and questions from the series are remembered today.  Her interview with Debbie McGee, now widow of the magician Paul  Daniel  remains a classic.

The multi-talented actress created the long running series with her  friend Craig Cash, and was responsible for not just writing  and playing Denise, but also and directing the show.

Social media sites are this evening full of tributes for Caroline Aherne.  Manchester comedian Jason Manford wrote: “Awful news about Caroline Aherne. She gave us all so many laughs and happy memories. Rest in Peace.”