Liz Dawn, who played Coronation Street’s Vera Duckworth, dies aged 77

FORMER Coronation Street star Liz Dawn has died.

The actress, famous for playing the soap’s Vera Duckworth, passed away after a battle with emphysema.

It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned our beloved Liz Dawn has passed away last night. https://t.co/zzdgWu2EIU pic.twitter.com/w3fQuGRArb

— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) September 26, 2017

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.”

A statement from Coronation Street producers said: “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.”

In pictures: Coronation Street’s Liz Dawn was one of the soap world’s most popular stars

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.”