Popular British comedian Victoria Wood has died after a “short but brave” battle with cancer.

The award-winning writer, comedian and actress, who was awarded with a CBE in 2008 for her impressive career of hit TV shows and dramas, died on Wednesday morning (April 20th) at her home surrounded by family.

Victoria WoodVictoria Wood has died aged 62, after a "short but brave" battle with cancer

“The multi BAFTA award-winning writer, director, actor and comedian died peacefully at her north London home with family this morning,” her publicist Neil Reading said in a brief statement this afternoon. “The family ask for privacy at this very sad time.”

Wood got her big break in showbusiness on the TV talent show ‘New Faces’ in 1974, while still studying at Birmingham University. Alongside her long-term collaborator Julie Walters, she created popular favourites such as ‘Acorn Antiques’ and sitcom ‘Dinnerladies’ among many others.

Her family posted via her Twitter account shortly after the news broke: “Thank you for your love and support at this very hard time. We leave you with these words from Victoria. X”

The post was followed by a picture containing her quotation: “Life's not fair is it? Some of us drink champagne in the fast lane, and some of us eat our sandwiches by the loose chippings on the A597.”

Tributes are still pouring in from the world of showbusiness and beyond at the time of writing. Dame Esther Rantzen, who presented the ‘70s magazine show ‘That’s Life!’ and interviewed Wood on a number of occasions, was one of the first to pass on her thoughts.

“I think she is one of our greatest comic writers and performers, but she could also deal with serious issue as well, and she's a huge loss,” Rantzen said. “She did a one-woman show for Childline where I felt hugely privileged to interview her and she told the story of her life with such wit. She just held us all enchanted for a whole evening.”

BBC director Tony Hall said: “Victoria Wood was a woman with a stunning array of talents - a comedian, singer, songwriter, actress and director. People identified with her warmth and great charm. She brought people from all walks of life together and made them laugh and cry. She will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with her friends and family.”

British Prime Minister David Cameron also paid tribute via Twitter, writing: “Victoria Wood was a national treasure loved by millions. My thoughts are with her family.”