Hammer horror actress Ingrid Pitt, best known for starring in cult classics such as Countess Dracula, has died at the age of 73. The Polish-born star passed away at a hospital in South London.

She was regarded by many fans as the queen of Hammer Horror films.

The star’s death comes weeks after film-maker Roy Ward Baker, who directed Pitt in The Vampire Lovers, died at the age of 93.

Pitt’s daughter Stephanie Blake told the BBC News website that her mother’s death had come as a “huge surprise”.

After the actress collapsed recently, doctors had told her was she suffering from heart failure.

“She could be incredibly generous, loving, and she’ll be sorely missed,” Mrs Blake said.

She added that she wanted her mother to be remembered as the Countess Dracula with the “wonderful teeth and the wonderful bosom”.

BBC News – Hammer horror actress Ingrid Pitt dies aged 73.

And my own post from my Horror month honouring the grand lady here…