Sadly, not much information is available about the real-life inspiration behind Winifred Payne or Doreen Mantle's portrayal of the character. However, her legacy lives on as a memorable and endearing character in British comedy history.
Major (United States Army, Retired or Active Reserve) Full Name: Benson Winifred Payne First Appearance: "A-Camping We Will Go" (Season 7, Episode 7, 1995) Last Appearance: "They Shoot Urkels, Don't They?" (Season 9, Episode 17, 1998) Occupation: Commandant of the (fictional) Christopher Columbus Military Academy Personality: Authoritarian, gruff, hyper-disciplined, secretly paternal, easily irritated by "mushy" emotions major benson winifred payne