Actress Liz Smith , who played the role of Nana in The Royle Family , and Mrs Cropley in the Vicar of Dibley , has died aged 95. A spokesperson for the actress confirmed on Boxing day that she passed away on Christmas eve. Liz, who was awarded an NBE in 2009 and was also a Bafta-award winner, was a family favourite, having played roles in a plethora of TV shows including 2point4 Children and Lark Rise to Candleford .