we start with the news that the australian comedian barry humphries best known for his character dame edna everage has died at the age of 89. he d been receiving treatment at a hospital in sydney following hip surgery. barry humphries was a leading figure on the british comedy scene with his many satirical characters. his family said he never lost his brilliant mind and unique wit. our arts correspondent, david silitto, looks back at his life. dame edna everage! hello, possums! dame edna always said she was born with a priceless gift. the ability to laugh at the misfortunes of others. about weight, you could do with losing a little, success has gone to yourjowls, russell hardy. oh, you re being very, very cruel! for more than 50 years, she took pleasure in saying the unsayable. i ve had a little work done. have you? but not quite as much as some. laughter but the thing is, you are still recognisable. she was so familiar, it was easy to forget that behind the glasses and f