“Multiple-award winning actress”. You’d think having that distinction would be enough to remember someone for.

But as we in our corner of North London know, the late Glenda Jackson was more than an onscreen heroine. She was the heroine so many needed to champion them and raise their voices to echo in the chamber of the most powerful in the land.

Few people managed to articulate the misery austerity was causing the most vulnerable in society in its earliest form.

She championed women’s rights throughout her life, debating the issue of abortion and fundraising for campaigns.

But she also played her part in Government, serving as minister for transport in London from 1997 to 1999, before for the creation of Transport for London and the massive investment that followed.

Ham & High: Anne Clarke remembers Glenda Jackson for more than her acting abilityAnne Clarke remembers Glenda Jackson for more than her acting ability (Image: London Assembly)

Wherever you go in her former Hampstead and Highgate, or latterly Hampstead and Kilburn constituency, you will find people she has helped. There was a real sense of pride in the community in being represented by Glenda, which is thankfully being ably carried forward by Tulip Siddiq MP.

And then there is Glenda the actress. I suppose calling her 'award winning' is a slight understatement. Her mantelpiece must buckle under the strain of two Oscars, three Emmys, a Tony, two BAFTAs, a Golden Globe, and dozens of other awards. This is the acting equivalent of a footballer winning the World Cup, the European championships and the treble.

Who could forget her performances? Has anyone played Queen Elizabeth I more definitively than Glenda did in 1971, in Elizabeth R and Mary, Queen of Scots. It would take some performance to come even close.

Even after her political retirement, she has been busy being feted for incredible performances, such as her depiction of dementia in the television film Elizabeth is Missing.

She also had superb comic timing, as ably demonstrated in her Morecambe and Wise sketches.

To reach the pinnacle of one profession is an achievement. To do it in two is exceptional. So farewell Glenda, thank you for everything you’ve done, from everyone you’ve inspired and been a heroine for.

  • Anne Clarke is the Labour London Assembly member for Barnet and Camden.