Sylvia Young OBE, founder of the renowned Sylvia Young Theatre School in Marylebone’s Nutford Place, has died aged 85.

Sylvia was a true visionary. She gave young people from all walks of life the chance to pursue their performing arts skills to the highest standard. Her rare ability to recognise raw talent and encourage all her students contributed to the richness of today’s theatre and music world, even winning herself an Olivier Award along the way.

She believed hard work with a bit of luck brought success, and she was an example of that herself.

An East End girl who worked hard to achieve her goals, she took hold of life, and lived it to the full. She leaves, as her legacy a wealth of brilliant performers, a thriving school bearing her name which will continue to offer young people the opportunity to realise their dreams.

Sylvia, her colleagues and pupils have been active BID members over the last 10 years, participating in community activities, events, training and briefings.