A tribute to Dame Penelope Keith

Brooklands Museum is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dame Penelope Keith DBE, a distinguished actress, passionate advocate for Britain's heritage and a much-valued Trustee of Brooklands Museum from 2009-2018.

Celebrated for her outstanding career across television, theatre and film, Dame Penelope was equally committed to supporting charities and preserving Britain's rich cultural heritage. In 2014, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to the arts and to charity.

Her contribution to Brooklands Museum extended far beyond her role as a Trustee. A dedicated ambassador for the Museum, Dame Penelope brought warmth, wisdom and unwavering support to its mission of preserving the pioneering history of motorsport and aviation. She was a familiar and much-loved presence at key events throughout the Museum's development, including the official opening of the award-winning Brooklands Aircraft Factory in 2017 by HRH Prince Michael of Kent.

Former Chief Executive Officer and now Vice President of the Brooklands Museum Trust, Allan Winn, said:
"Penelope was like a breath of fresh air at Trustee meetings. She brought an enormous amount of common sense to every discussion, always asking the important questions and getting straight to the heart of an issue.

She was a hugely important part of Brooklands Museum – a wonderful ambassador whose warmth, authenticity and natural charm made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her presence at our events and special occasions always made them that little bit more special.

Penelope was not only a passionate advocate for Britain's heritage, but also had a personal connection to Brooklands. She was a distant relative of Jack Gurney-Nutting, who built the body of the iconic Napier-Railton - one of the Museum's most celebrated and enduring symbols. She understood the importance of preserving these stories and sharing them with future generations. She also owned a Gurney-Nutting built Rolls Royce Phantom III – she loved cars!

She will be greatly missed by everyone at Brooklands Museum."

Dame Penelope's love of heritage was deeply personal. Through her family connection to Jack Gurney-Nutting, who built the body of the legendary Napier-Railton racing car, she shared a unique bond with Brooklands and the stories that continue to define the site today.

Reflecting the kindness and consideration for which she was so admired, Dame Penelope once said:
"In my book, all manners are is thinking of somebody else."

Those words perfectly captured the generosity, grace and humanity she brought to every role she undertook, both on and off screen.

The Trustees, Staff and Volunteers of Brooklands Museum extend their heartfelt condolences to Dame Penelope's family, friends and all those whose lives she touched. Her remarkable legacy in the arts, charitable work and heritage sector will continue to inspire generations to come.