Liz Dawn the Coronation Street legend has died, her family confirmed in an emotional statement.
The 77-year-old, famous for playing Vera Duckworth in the long-running soap played the character for over 34 years.
Her role in the soap saw her win the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 British Soap Awards. She was also awarded an MBE in the 2000 Queens Birthday Honours.
Confirming the tragic news, her family released an emotional statement which said she “died peacefully at home with her loving family around her.”
It 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.”
The Coronation Street team also payed tribute to their “beloved” Liz Dawn.
A statement issued on behalf of the show read: “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."
Kim Marsh who plays Michelle Connor in the ITV soap 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."
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.”
