Fat Friends and The Syndicate writer dies aged 71 as tributes paid to television drama legend

ACTOR and screenwriter Kay Mellor has died, her production company said this morning.

Leeds-born Mellor, who was best-known for writing Fat Friends and The Syndicate, died on Sunday at the age of 71.

Her death was announced by Rollem Productions.

A spokesperson said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely and sudden passing of our beloved friend, mentor and colleague Kay Mellor on Sunday, May 15.

“We have lost a phenomenal talent and a true luminary. We ask that you please respect the privacy of the family and friends at this time.”

Kay began her career writing plays before working on Coronation Street and creating the award-winning children’s drama Children’s Ward.

She also wrote BBC One’s women’s football series Playing The Field and in 2010 received an OBE.

Kay is survived by husband Anthony and the couple’s two daughters, TV producer Yvonne Francas and actress Gaynor Faye, as well as her four grandchildren.

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