Lifetime award for Archers veteran

The 94-year-old actress, who plays Peggy Woolley and is the only remaining member of the original cast, was presented with the gong at the BBC Audio Drama Awards.

Director-general Tony Hall presented her with the award tonight at BBC Broadcasting House in a special ceremony hosted by actor Lenny Henry.

June, who lost her own husband to Alzheimer’s, has recently been involved in a storyline about the death of her on-air husband after suffering from dementia. The actor who played him, Arnold Peters, was also diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and died last May.

The show’s editor Sean O’Connor said: “June is an extraordinary woman who has committed her life to the BBC and The Archers.

“At 94, absolutely nothing fazes her. She performed with heart-breaking dignity in the recent episodes.”