Barbara’s fast decline
She’s been battling Alzheimers disease for almost a year, but it seems EastEnders star Barbara Windsor’s health is quickly deteriorating, with her former co-stars revealing that they’re unable to visit the actress for fear of “confusing her”.
Pam St Clement, who played Pat Butcher in the long-running soap for 20 years opposite Barbara (80), says her friend’s condition is worsening and so has heartbreakingly decided to keep her distance.
“I’m sad I haven’t been able to visit Barbara due to her illness,” says Pam (76). “I have been in constant contact with Scott [Mitchell, Barbara’s husband], but I couldn’t speak to Barbara directly in case it confuses her. Any plans to see her have also been put on hold because she is poorly.”
Another former co-star, Rita Simons (41), who played her niece Roxy Mitchell, also confirms that Barbara’s condition “has taken a real dip”.
“What I have seen is more confusion, which is really devastating to watch because she always had her marbles together and was always the life and soul of the room.
“It is incredibly sad, though, that my Aunty Peggy isn’t herself. From what Scott says, there are some dark days but they still have good days too.”
Barbara is determined to fight on for as long as she can, with the actress sending a video message to talk-show host Jane Moore last month, in which she vowed to keep on trucking.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone for the messages of support I’ve been receiving. It really means a lot to me, it really does. Have a great day and have no fear – I still intend to carry on. God bless everyone.”