Michael More-Molyneux, the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, told BBC Radio Surrey how he met the “extraordinary” Dame Penelope 30 years ago as their sons went to the same school.
“We know her as a star of stage and screen, but she was very involved in Surrey with good causes and looking out for people,” he explained.
“She was always concerned about the state of life in our county and was a tremendous friend to so many people in our county.”
Former culture secretary and current MP for Godalming and Ash, Sir Jeremy Hunt, added: “She was incredible and part of a Great British tradition of having a laugh at ourselves.
“When you met her in private, her voice was exactly the same.
“She was much loved in the community and served as High Sheriff of Surrey – it’s a very sad day indeed.”
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