Shirley June "Sheree" Winton (née Patrick; 4 November 1935 – 29 May 1976) was an English actress, and the mother of television presenter Dale** Winton**.

Early life

Winton was born on 4 November 1935 in Sheffield, England.

Career

Winton was often referred to as "the English Jayne Mansfield" and appeared in many films and television shows throughout her career. Her film appearances included The Devil's Disciple (1959), Dentist in the Chair (1960), The Road to Hong Kong (1962) and Rhubarb (1969). She was also known for her TV show appearances with Frankie Howerd and Terry-Thomas. She was chosen Queen for a Day by the Oldham Charity Carnival in 1957. Among her film and TV appearances, she played herself in the series That Was the Week That Was (1962–1963) and Kindly Leave the Stage (1968). She had an uncredited bit part in the James Bond film Thunderball (1965).

Personal life

She married Gary Winton, a furniture salesman, in 1954, and converted to her husband's Jewish faith; they were divorced in 1965, and he died in 1968. She was the mother of television presenter Dale Winton. She died by suicide in 1976 by taking a barbiturate overdose after a lifelong battle with clinical depression. She was found by her son Dale, and a "do not disturb" sign was outside her bedroom door.

Selected filmography

Television appearances