Emma Chambers, best known for playing Alice Tinker in The Vicar of Dibley, has died aged 53, it was announced on Saturday.

Chambers’ agent said she died of natural causes on Wednesday evening. She is survived by her husband, Ian Dunn, who is also an actor.

Dawn French, the star of The Vicar of Dibley, described her as “a unique and beautiful spark”.

Chambers also appeared in the 1999 film Notting Hill as Honey, the younger sister of Hugh Grant’s character, William Thacker. Grant reacted to the news, tweeting that she was “a hilarious and very warm person”.

Her agent, John Grant, said: “We are very sad to announce the untimely death, from natural causes, of the acclaimed actress Emma Chambers.

“Over the years, Emma created a wealth of characters and an immense body of work. She brought laughter and joy to many, and will be greatly missed.”

The agent added: “At this difficult time we ask that the privacy of the family and loved ones be respected.”