A dancer who worked with David Bowie on his 1980s movie Absolute Beginners has paid tribute to the charismatic star.

Ham & High: David Bowie in 1987 PA WireDavid Bowie in 1987 PA Wire

Cindy Lass, now a successful artist, of Springfield Road, St John’s Wood was 21 when she was chosen to be one of four dance students to perform with Bowie on the title song of the movie which took two weeks to film at Shepperton Studios in 1985.

Cindy, who grew up in Hampstead and was then a pupil at the Corona Theatre School, said: “When David Bowie walked onto the set he came straight over to sit with us on this giant typewriter prop and talk to us. I was speechless. He had a wonderful presence. I was immediately struck by his beautiful different colour eyes and how tall he was.

“He was so charming. He always had time to talk to us during that two weeks. What a star and what a gentleman and kind human being. I have met and worked with many stars, but none with such charisma and star quality.

“I then bumped into him again at an airport a few years later. He was sitting in the lounge and smiled. He just had this amazing presence and aura.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8NZa9wYZ_U

“I feel very shocked, like so many whose lives he touched, to hear he has died and feel very sad.”