Liz Dawn dead: Read ITV statement on death of Coronation Street actress in full

Actress and her co-star Bill Tarmey played one of the most iconic soap couples in TV history

Liz Dawn at the British Soap Awards in 2008 (Getty)

Liz Dawn, star of Coronation Street, has died aged 77 after a battle with lung condition emphysema.

Dawn joined the soap in 1974 and became half of one of television's most iconic couples, alongside Bill Tarmey, who portrayed her on-screen husband Jack.

Her last appearance on the soap was as a ghost in 2010, to mark Tarmey's final scenes.

A statement was released by ITV and Coronation Street expression "the greatest sadness" to hear of Dawn's death.

"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," the statement read.

"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."

On behalf of ITV and the programme Coronation Street’s Executive Producer, Kieran Roberts said:

“Liz Dawn was a true Coronation Street legend, a brilliant actor and a wonderful person. Everyone lucky enough to have worked with Liz during her thirty-four years playing Corrie icon Vera Duckworth will remember her with huge affection.”

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