Liz Dawn, who played legendary Coronation Street character Vera Duckworth for more than 30 years, has died aged 77, her family have confirmed.
Liz, who left the Manchester-based soap in 2008, had struggled with poor health for several years, most recently battling lung condition, emphesyma.
A statement from her family said: “We are devastated and heartbroken at the passing of our much-loved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother, the incredible Liz Dawn.
“Liz died peacefully last night at home with her loving family around her.
“She has been the love, light and inspiration in our lives and we are bereft at her passing.”
Coronation Street also issued a statement, saying: “It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned our beloved Liz Dawn has passed away last night. Her family at Coronation Street are heartbroken.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this very sad time to Liz’s devoted husband Don, her loving children Graham, Dawn, Ann and Julie, their families and her six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
“We have been blessed to have Liz in our lives, as she was such a kind, considerate and caring friend and colleague. As Coronation Street’s Vera Duckworth for 34 years, Liz brought so much joy and happiness to so many. She was a wonderful actress who will forever be a true Coronation Street legend.”
The sad news was broken by the official Coronation Street twitter account, which simply wrote: “It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned our beloved Liz Dawn has passed away last night.”
Tributes have been pouring in ever since for Liz, from friends and colleagues, to celebrity fans of the ITV soap.
Kym Marsh and Shayne Ward led the tributes from the current Corrie cast.
Kym tweeted: “Just heard the terrible news of our lovely Liz Dawns passing. I’m so sad. What a wonderful lady. She will be so missed. Love to her family x.”
Shayne simply wrote: “RIP Liz Dawn.”
Former Corrie actor, Kevin Kennedy, who played Curly Watts, offered his condolences, reminding us what a legend Liz was.
He said: “Liz Dawn made me laugh every time I was was with her , that will be my everlasting memory of her sleep well kid.”
Emmerdale star Danny Miller joined in with the tributes.
The actor, who plays Aaron Dingle, tweeted: “Devastated to hear about the passing of Liz Dawn. A beautiful soul. Inside and out. Rest in peace.”
Liz played Vera from 1974 – 2008.
She was made an MBE in 2000 for services to charity.
She leaves behind four children, six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.