Dame Patricia Routledge, the beloved actress best known for her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances, is set to receive a remarkable double honour as both her birthplace and her adopted home city celebrate her extraordinary career and contributions.

On Monday, February 17, as she marks her 96th birthday, the bells of Chichester Cathedral will ring in her honour between 11 a.m. and noon. This rare tribute is a significant gesture of appreciation from the city where she has lived for many years.

It comes not long after she was awarded the prestigious Freedom of the Wirral, a touching recognition from the place where she was born in 1929.

The legendary actress expressed her overwhelming gratitude for both honours, admitting that it was almost too much to take in. “I can’t quite take it in! It is almost too much!” she said, her signature wit shining through.

As for the upcoming bell-ringing tribute in Chichester, she joked about her excitement to hear the bells but acknowledged the unpredictability of the weather: “I may be found wandering around outside the cathedral if the wind isn’t blowing in the right direction!”

Dame Patricia recently traveled to the Wirral to receive the Freedom of the Borough, an accolade she described as “the greatest honour a city or town can pay someone.” The distinction, traditionally granted to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public life, was met with great enthusiasm by Dame Patricia. She humorously acknowledged one of its symbolic privileges: “It allows me to shepherd my sheep across the peninsula!”

Her official ceremony was a day filled with joy, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments. The event was attended by prominent local figures, including the Mayor, Deputy Mayors, and the three Members of Parliament representing the Wirral.

The Bishop of Birkenhead was also present, along with special guests handpicked by Dame Patricia herself. Among them were the head of her primary school and representatives from Birkenhead High School, the institutions that played a vital role in shaping her early years.

One of the most touching moments came when a children’s choir from her primary school performed in her honour, a gesture that deeply moved her. “They sent a little choir to sing to me on the occasion, and I am still coming down from it!” she said, recalling the event with emotion.

Following the formal ceremony, Dame Patricia and her guests enjoyed a high tea celebration, an intimate gathering that allowed her to reconnect with old friends and reflect on her journey from a young girl in Tranmere to an internationally acclaimed actress.

Born in Birkenhead, Dame Patricia spent her early years in the northwest of England before pursuing higher education at Liverpool University. There, she studied English Language and Literature while actively participating in the university’s drama and music societies.

Her passion for the performing arts ultimately led her to train at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, setting the foundation for an illustrious career spanning theatre, television, and film.

Although she is best known for her comedic brilliance as Hyacinth Bucket, Dame Patricia’s career has been marked by an exceptional range of performances. From Shakespearean roles to West End productions, she has proven herself as one of Britain’s most versatile and accomplished actresses.

Her contributions to theatre have earned her numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and an Olivier Award.

At Chichester Festival Theatre, she has graced the stage in productions such as Beatrix and The Importance of Being Earnest, endearing herself to the local arts community. Though she no longer performs on stage, she remains a dedicated patron of the theatre and is often seen attending performances.

While her connection to the Wirral remains strong, Dame Patricia has called Chichester home for many years. Her deep ties to the city extend beyond the stage—she is an active member of the community and a regular worshipper at Chichester Cathedral.

Her support for the cathedral has been unwavering, particularly in times of need. In 2020, she played a significant role in raising £10,000 for the restoration of the cathedral roof, demonstrating her dedication to preserving the historical and cultural heart of the city.

To mark her 96th birthday, Chichester will honor Dame Patricia in a way befitting a woman of her stature. The rare and prestigious gesture of ringing the cathedral bells is a reflection of the city’s immense appreciation for her contributions.

This momentous occasion will be a celebration not only of her incredible career but also of her impact on the lives of those around her.

With the ringing of Chichester Cathedral’s bells and the bestowal of Freedom of the Wirral, Dame Patricia Routledge is receiving the recognition she so richly deserves. These twin honours highlight both her roots and her chosen home, celebrating a life that has brought joy to millions through theatre, television, and personal contributions to the community.

Reflecting on these prestigious accolades, Dame Patricia remains as humble and witty as ever, savoring the outpouring of appreciation from two places that hold special meaning in her heart. Whether she is reminiscing about her early days in the Wirral, delighting in Chichester’s cultural scene, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in her beloved cathedral, one thing is certain—her legacy is as enduring as ever.