The much-loved actress appeared at Bradford's Alhambra in panto and musical theatre, and in 2012 she was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award from Bradford International Film Festival.

The Carry On and EastEnders star was interviewed on stage ahead of a screening of her 1964 film, Sparrers Can't Sing. The festival, held at the National Media Museum, also screened Carry On Spying - her first Carry On film - and screwball comedy Crooks in Cloisters.

Dame Barbara told the T&A she was "thrilled" to receive the award, adding: "I don't expect awards, I never did."

She appeared at Bradford's Alhambra theatre in a production of Guys and Dolls in the 1990s, and before that in the panto Aladdin in 1976, topping a bill that also included Freddie "Parrot Face" Davies and It Ain't Half Mum star Michael Bates.

"Bradford was a lovely friendly place, it took me back to how the East End used to be," said Dame Barbara. "My career has always been rooted in theatre and Sparrers Can't Sing came out of Joan Littlewood's Theatre Royal workshops. They didn't want me in the film but Joan said, 'if you don't have Babs I won't do it'. Then I ended up being nominated for a Bafta!"

Born Barbara Ann Deeks, she started dancing as a child. Her career took off with Carry On Spying. In the 1990s she joined EastEnders as feisty Peggy Mitchell, who took over the Queen Vic and became the nation's most famous pub landlady.

Tom Vincent, co-director of Bradford Film Festival, called Dame Barbara the "very definition of a national treasure". He added: "She is also an arresting screen presence that has earned her both Bafta plaudits and mass affection."

Did you see Dame Barbara Windsor on stage? Share your memories below.

From Mark Raftery

When did you see Barbara Windsor?1976 Alhambra Bradford

Where did you see her?Alhambra Bradford Aladdin

What was she like?I was 9 years old in 1976, went with the family to watch Aladdin staring Barbara Windsor, I had to go on stage and sing part of a song with 4 others haha, never forgot it, she was a beautiful person to meet and kissed me on the cheek Haha.

From David Park

When did you see Barbara Windsor?2012

Where did you see her?Bradford International Film Festival

What was she like?Just like she spoke and looked on screen and TV and a lovely lady. My wife and I were waiting in the foyer of the Pictureville cinema to attend the interview with Barbara and screening of "Sparrows can't sing" Barbara came straight up to us and asked "Where is the lavatory please", my wife then directed her to the nearest toilet. A few minutes later the lady from the Museum who had been assigned to look after appeared and asked " David have you seen Barbara Windsor". Yes she has gone to the toilet, she was most pleased as they must somehow got seperated.

Please send a photo if you have one

Barbara Windsor BIFF 2012