James Bond actress Helen McCrory, who lived in Suffolk with her husband Damian Lewis, has died aged 52.

McCrory, who was suffering from cancer, passed away surrounded by friends and family at her home near Sudbury.

The actress had two children with Lewis and was best known for her roles in Skyfall, the Harry Potter film series and Peaky Blinders.

She also starred in ITV crime drama Fearless in 2017, which was partly recorded in the Suffolk countryside.

Lewis confirmed the news of his wife's death in a statement on Twitter, which said: "I'm heartbroken to announce that after an heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and mighty woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of love from friends and family.

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"She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air, and thank you."

Tributes began to pour in after McCrory's death was announced on Friday afternoon.

The Wizarding World Twitter account, home to the Harry Potter franchise, tweeted: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved Helen McCrory, who played Narcissa Malfoy with such depth and brilliance in the Harry Potter film series.

"She was a wonderful actor and a very dear friend; Harry Potter fans will miss her very much."

Actor Kevin McKidd, who starred opposite McCrory in the 2000 TV miniseries Anna Karenina, tweeted: "I am utterly heartbroken to hear this... Damian I'm sending you and the family all my love and warmth at this time.

"Helen, we love you. Your talent, humanity and passion for life will be remembered by me and everyone your life touched with deep gratitude. Rest In peace dear one."

At the start of the coronavirus crisis last year, McCrory and Lewis launched their FeedNHS campaign to provide frontline healthcare workers with hot meals.

The scheme, in conjunction with fast food chain Leon, attracted more than £1million in donations and provided 25,000 meals in its first few weeks.