Britain’s oldest drag queen and Brighton Pride legend dies aged 91 as tributes flood in to ‘trailblazing’ performer

BRITAIN’s oldest performing drag queen has passed away aged 91.

David Raven, better known by the stage name Maisie Trollette, was a feature of the Brighton Pride parade since it started in 1973.

FacebookBritain’s oldest performing drag queen has passed away aged 91[/caption] FacebookDavid Raven died in the early hours of the morning in Brighton[/caption] RexMaisie Trollette was a feature of the Brighton Pride parade since it started in 1973[/caption]

He died in the early hours of the morning in Brighton, according to The Argus.

The LGBT+ trailblazer dazzled audiences for over half a century.

Born in St Ives, Cornwall in 1933, he grew up in Suffolk training as a grocer, publican and waiter.

David came out in 1959, aged 26 – when being gay was still illegal – and moved to London a year later.

His career began as one half of the drag duo The Trollettes with Jimmy Court.

The entertainer was a regular at venues including The Black Cap and the RVT.

Her performances were also a “staple” at Two Brewers, who released a touching tribute to the late star.

It read: “We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Maisie Trollette.

“David Raven, known by his stage name Maisie Trollette, was a pioneering figure in British drag performance.

“Born in 1933, he began his fabulous career in the 1960s, forming the duo The Trollettes with James Court.

“They captivated audiences at renowned venues such as The Black Cap and the RVT.

“Maisie Trollette’s performances were a staple at Two Brewers, where she entertained countless patrons over the years to a packed house.

“David was deeply committed to philanthropy, raising thousands of pounds for charities nationwide.

“His enduring legacy and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community were celebrated in the 2022 documentary ‘Maisie’.

“David passed away this morning at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

“He will be deeply missed.”

The 2022 documentary Maisie captured Raven in the run-up to his 85th birthday celebrations.

FacebookThe LGBT+ trailblazer dazzled audiences for over half a century[/caption] FacebookBorn in 1933, David’s career began as one half of the drag duo The Trollettes[/caption] FacebookHer performances were also a ‘staple’ at Two Brewers[/caption]